Simple Ways to Create an Eco-Friendly Home

There is no denying that environmentalism is one of the hottest issues of the moment. We are consistently hearing people state that our planet is changing for the worse because of the strains we have put on our natural resources and the amount of unnecessary energy we consume each day.

The good news is that there are many little things you can do around your house to make your home more environmentally friendly.

Many people have shied away from going green because they are under the impression that it is expensive, and a much harder way to live. But today it has never been easier to go green at home. In fact, going green can actually save you money while you help save the planet. And if you are selling your home, going green is an added bonus: Many buyers are specifically looking to buy green-friendly homes.

If you need some ideas on how to get started, here are some easy ways to incorporate green into your lifestyle:

• Switch to Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. Even changing just the five most frequently used bulbs in your house can save you $100 per year or more.
• Install low-flow shower heads. Place a water-displacement bag in your toilet tank to cut down on water waste.
• Buy local produce. Local produce cuts down on paper and plastic packaging waste and also reduces the amount on fossil fuels used in the transportation of products.
• Set your thermostat. Keep your home at 78° or higher in the summer and 62° or lower in the winter to save $100 or more on your energy bill each year.
• Drive less. Walk, bike or take the bus, and initiate a carpool for trips to and from work, school or other activities.
• Utilize power strips. Power strips cut down on “vampire electricity,” which is the electricity used while appliances and electronics are plugged into an outlet, but not in use. By flipping the “off” switch on a power strip, you’ll quickly put a stop to this.
• Look for the Energy Star label. Appliances with the energy star will be 10 to 50 percent more efficient than appliances without the label.
• Let your grass grow. Most varieties fare best at two and a half inches tall, absorbing more sunlight and creating thicker turf, meaning less water needed for your lawn.
• Do full loads of laundry. When washing clothes or doing dishes, do full load – it will save gallons of wasted water every week. And use cold water whenever possible.
• Use eco-friendly paints, stains and finishes. Many of those products are not made up of volatile organic compounds, which give you that woozy feeling after painting, and also contribute to pollution.

Every little change makes a difference. Get your family involved and tell your friends and neighbors about the advantages of going green. In the end, it will make for a healthier lifestyle for you, your home and our planet.