The importance of going green may seem like it’s just what is trending right now, but it is our moral obligation to protect the environment from producing more pollution. There are things you can do to continue to protect our environment by making your apartment and community more sustainable, as well as environmentally friendly.
LED Lights
Light bulbs that use LED technology not only bring down your energy bills but are also more environmentally friendly. Because these energy-efficient lightbulbs use much less electricity, they will also last longer – a longer life span means lowering carbon emissions. They last up to six times longer than any other type of lightbulbs, which means you don’t have to waste money replacing them.
Water Sustainability
Sustainability is often associated with energy usage. In order to become eco-friendly, it's time to get serious about saving water (which will also save your bill). Using water in your home or apartment takes up a lot of energy that is required to pump water into your home. Conserving water will reduce the amount of energy you use. A couple of ways you can conserve water is by taking shorter showers, shutting the water off while you brush your teeth, recycling water, use water-saving appliances, and stop buying water bottles and purchase a water filter.
Smart Meters
Everyone knows that one person who decides to turn the heat up too high and leaves it on all day, especially during the winter. Your heating is one of the top ways that you use energy in the house, especially if you forget to turn it back down. You waste money and energy by leaving it on all day and all night, and one of the more eco-friendly ways to reduce your usage is having a smart meter installed. By being able to be programmed to only turn on at certain times of the day, you will be able to reduce your carbon footprint and decrease your energy bill.
Plants
Introducing greenery to your apartment will help purify the air, and add beautiful vibrancy into your living environment. For plants like eucalyptus, leaving the plant hanging in your shower will help release essential oils, which can help clear nasal congestion. Plants like Pothos can be hung from a basket or potted normally and can thrive in a wide variety of lighting. They are also known for their air-purification properties and can strip your home from toxins that are known to form in carpets and rugs.
Reusable Products
Switching to reusable products such as rags, napkins, grocery bags, and water bottles can be a great way to make little changes in your apartment and in your life. You will save money in the long run by eliminating disposable plastic usage, and replacing it with reusable, high-quality products. Not only will you save money, but these products have safer materials since all disposable products are typically made from plastic.
Community Efforts
Getting involved in your community to take a step towards an eco-friendly lifestyle is continuing to evolve and become easier. There are many community gardens in Philadelphia and farmers’ markets that will make your neighborhood take a step towards participating in eco-friendly ways. You can walk more and bike around the city on your day off, or if you are heading to work – drive less to help reduce your carbon footprint. Taking public transportation for your daily commuting needs, or even carpooling to work with your co-workers.
