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From a morning cup of coffee brewed from a disposable pod to the plastic utensils used for take-out meals and more, there are several things we do day in and day out that negatively impact the environment. And while most people are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, it’s sometimes easier said than done.
Here are a few ways to step up energy and natural resource conservation you might have overlooked.
Get an Energy Audit – An energy auditor will review your past utility bills, conduct a room-by-room assessment, and provide you with recommendations to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Some of these recommendations may include sealing air leaks, installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, and improving insulation.
Toss Less Food – Food that becomes garbage contributes to methane emissions. So, to reduce the amount of food you waste, commit to weekly meal planning so that more of the food you purchase gets consumed. Only buy enough fresh ingredients you think your family will eat, and plan meals around items you already have in your fridge.
Reduce Disposable Dependence – Sure, single use paper and plastics are convenient, especially when on the go, but switching to reusable alternatives isn’t as hard as you might think. Try adding a water filtration system instead of buying bottled water. Invest in reusable bowl covers instead of plastic wrap. And use microfiber cloths instead of paper towels for clean-up.
Recycle Better – You probably already recycle glass, paper, and plastics. But what about items that don’t neatly fit in the recycling bin? If you’re retiring electronics, find a collection point that accepts e-waste like old laptops, TVs, and DVD players. If you’re starting a home remodel, donate usable material like cabinets, fixtures, and furnishings instead of tossing them into your contractor’s dumpster.
Reduce Living Space – More square feet means more room to spread out. It also means more areas to furnish, clean, heat, and cool. If you’re thinking of moving, consider the benefits of down-sizing – even a little. You’ll save money, too.
Plant Trees – According to the U.S. Forest Service Center for Urban Forest Research, neighborhoods with shade trees can be up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than those without. If your home could use a little shade, consider planting a tree or two.
GBT Heating & Cooling is happy to play a daily role in carbon footprint shrinking. Our late model heating and air conditioning systems, for example, operate at up to 99% energy efficiency. Plus, through ongoing system maintenance, we can reduce the amount of system wear and tear which also contributes to reduced energy use. Contact us today for the service you need and a guaranteed upfront price quote.