The world is rapidly coming to an end, as evidenced by rising global warming, pollution, and deadly illnesses consuming people. Instead of simply sitting back and letting things worsen, it is time to take action. It is about time for us to start incorporating environmentally friendly practices and technology into our everyday lives. That not only saves the environment and scarce resources for future generations, but it also saves money on utility bills.
The sole disadvantage of switching to green practices is the initial cost. But then again, it is a long-term investment with a high return. With just a one-time payment, you will save significantly on your monthly utility costs. When you sum up your monthly savings, the money you spent on eco-friendly technology will not appear to be huge anymore. Besides, switching to sustainable solutions qualifies you for tax breaks and rebates.
I really can’t think of any reason not to embrace eco-friendly home technology alternatives. You will save the environment, valuable resources, and money, and also get to live in a supportive atmosphere with your loved ones. So, here are some options to consider:
- Solar Products
You cannot survive a cold-water bath, nor can you survive a winter without a heater, can you? You end up utilizing a traditional water heater and a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, both of which consume power. However, you can go greener by installing solar panels. They utilize the sun’s energy, which eliminates the need for conventional electricity.
You can then use this electricity for water heaters or to keep the indoors warm. This will help the environment and your pocket too. While the initial installation of solar products may be costly, it can help you save a considerable sum of money on your utility and energy bills.
- Switch to Energy Star Appliances
The EnergyStar is a predetermined rating issued to appliances by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. A higher rating for an appliance, such as a refrigerator, indicates that it is more energy-saving. As a result, it is advised that you consider the energy stars while making your next purchase. Additionally, if you have been using an appliance for more than ten years, it is time to replace it. This is because such an older product consumes more than the usual electricity.
- Cork Flooring
You probably didn’t expect to see cork flooring on the list, did you? It is, after all, the ultimate green flooring solution, featuring only plus points. To begin with, it is natural, lightweight, versatile, renewable, and secure. It offers cushion effects and is quite comfortable to walk on. Additionally, it is a microbial fiber, which means no mold and mildew growth on it. You may feel that cock flooring is unappealing, but here’s the good news: it isn’t.
Thanks to digital impression technology, it is now feasible to give cork flooring the appearance and feel of wood or stone. So, you can consider it when the next time you plan to renovate your house.
- Eco-friendly Paint
Sadly, the scent of traditional paint, which strangely many people and perhaps you may enjoy, includes gas emissions that harm the environment and affect the lungs. So, the next time you decide to paint, say goodbye to the unusual fragrances of standard paints and instead apply a coat of environmentally friendly paints. Green paints have no hazardous chemicals. Since they contain no volatile organic compounds, they have little to no odor. You may not save money on bills, but you will safeguard your health.
- Green Roofs
A green roof, also known as a living roof, is growing vegetation planted on top of a residence. It is probably the most significant technological breakthrough in human history. For starters, it insulates the home, conserving energy. Secondly, it regulates stormwater by storing surplus water, which the plants soak up. Thirdly, plantation enhances air quality and lessens the heatwave impacts. So it’s a win-win situation when it comes to saving the environment and money on utilities.
- LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs are the most sustainable technology that has been available for a long time but has only lately gained popularity. These bulbs are more durable, last longer, and use less energy. These bulbs are more expensive but note that you won’t have to change them as frequently, and lesser energy will be consumed. As a result, they are more cost-effective than conventional bulbs.
These methods are easy to adapt as you just have to purchase some items and install the technology to use them. Hence, start thinking green and putting these and hundreds of other ecologically beneficial ideas into action.
