Making the switch to green energy doesn’t need to be expensive or difficult – simply making small changes that reduce waste, save energy and increase quality of life can add up quickly!
These nine budget-conscious tips can help transform your space while leaving wallets satisfied!
1. Insulate Your Home
- Why insulation helps:
- A poorly insulated home is an energy wasting residence. It makes heating and cooling systems work harder.
- Home insulation done by professionals keeps your home comfortable, no matter the weather, all this aiding in cutting energy use.
- How to insulate effectively:
- Start with sealing the door and window gaps. Use weather-stripping or caulk for best results.
- Put more focus on Insulating the upper part of your home like your attic. Also work on your walls and floors for long-term benefits.
- Tip:
- If your weather is cold use thick curtains to keep the heat in. And if your weather is usually hot, use blinds and open windows to maintain indoor temperatures.
2. Use Natural Landscaping
- Why landscape naturally:
- The way we conventionally take care of our lawns and pesticides disrupt the local ecosystem and contribute to water waste. Natural landscaping supports wildlife and creates a more sustainable yard.
- How to adapt your yard:
- Look for plants native to your region which grow without requireing excessive irrigation or the addition of chemical fertilizers, like mulch. Mulching helps preserve soil moisture levels while protecting it against weed growth.
- Tip:
- Attract bees and butterflies with small pollinator garden. This aids in maintaining local biodiversity and sustainability.
3. Make DIY Natural Cleaning Products
- Why go natural:
- The cleaners you buy from stores come in plastic bottles and contain harsh chemicals harmful to the environment.
- DIY cleaners are hazardous free, affordable, and of course eco-friendlier.
- Simple Recipes for DIY All-Purpose Cleaners:
- Combine equal parts water and vinegar; add several drops of aromatic essential oil such as lavender, lemongrass, tea tree oil, eucalyptus or peppermint for an invigorating scent boost.
- Homemade glass cleaner can be made at home by mixing 2 cups of water, 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol together.
- Bonus tip: Make use of spray bottles multiple times!
4. Set Up a Compost Bin
- Why composting rocks:
- Reduces food waste.
- Creates nutrient-rich soil for your garden or plants.
- How to start on a budget:
- You can use a simple countertop compost container.
- Gather cookhouse leftovers like vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells to use as fertilizer.
- Tip:
- Don’t put meat, dairy, or oily foods in your compost. It will keep he pests away.
5. Install Faucet Aerators
- Quick, effective, and affordable:
- These tiny devices reduce water flow without compromising pressure.
- Key benefits:
- Cuts water usage by up to 50%.
- Lowers energy costs by reducing the need to heat water.
- Bonus hack:
- Consider switching to low-flow showerheads for added water savings.
6. Upcycle and DIY Décor
- Why upcycling is sustainable:
- Keeps discarded items out of the landfill.
- Saves money and gives your home unique character.
- Examples:
- Turn glass jars into storage containers for pantry staples or bathroom essentials.
- Repurpose wooden pallets into garden planters or furniture.
- Pro tip:
- Check local thrift stores for affordable and second-hand décor items to upcycle.
7. Start a Mini Indoor Garden
- Why grow your greens:
- Fresh herbs and veggies not only cut down on the packaging waste from store-bought goods but also taste way better.
- Ideas for any space:
- Small apartments can use windowsill planters for herbs.
- Vertical gardens or hanging planters save floor space.
- Most beginner-friendly plants:
- Basil, rosemary, chives, lettuce, and spinach.
8. Opt for Energy-Efficient Appliances (Secondhand!)
- Why it matters:
- ENERGY STAR-certified appliances consume less electricity and water.
- Budget-friendly angle:
- Shop for lightly-used secondhand appliances through local buy-sell groups or thrift stores.
- Examples:
- Replace older refrigerators, washing machines, or dishwashers to see an immediate drop in your consumption.
Bonus Hacks to Boost Your Eco-Friendly Efforts
- Switch to digital bills and reduce paper usage by paying online.
- Build a rainwater collection system to water your garden.
- Borrow, rent, or swap tools or equipment, rather than buying them new.
Final Thoughts
Making you home run on renewable and clean energy doesn’t need to break the bank. You can do it by making small, intentional changes and recycling everyday items you can reduce carbon emissions while saving money at the same time. Sealing drafts, growing herbs or opting for more eco-friendly options – each step towards living an eco-friendlier, sustainable life will bring you one step closer.
Start making small sustainable changes now to encourage your household! Small steps lead to big results!
