A Guide To An Eco Friendly Household
Looking to make your household more eco-friendly? Here are six tips to achieve environmental friendliness within your home.
Find an Audited Energy Tariff
For the average consumer, it’s difficult to verify claims made by energy suppliers about whether they are actually green. The Green Energy Supply Certification Scheme, an independent group holding energy suppliers accountable for their claims, is the perfect solution. If you want electricity that comes from a renewable source and a supplier that provides additional environmental benefits, purchase an energy tariff that has been audited by an independent third party and awarded with the Certified Green Energy label.
Purchase Products From Eco-Friendly Companies
When you’re purchasing household products, research companies to ensure they have similar values to you in terms of the environment. Look for companies like Amway that have employees and business partners that are committed to making a difference in the world. Buy from power brands that look to tackle social issues, strive for sustainable performance and continuously improve the environment. Make sure their goals include reducing greenhouse gas emissions and decreasing water consumption.
Prevent Household Food Waste
Every year 7 million tonnes of food is thrown out, according to Wrap. That’s 19 percent of the food that is purchased within UK households. To avoid wasting food in your household, plan your family’s meals and buy the correct amounts. Check the expiration dates before you purchase products and make the most out of what you buy. Research what food can be frozen, and don’t forget about your leftovers in the back of the fridge. By preventing food waste, you will save money, landfills will be less full and you will be mitigating climate change.
Check Your Appliances
According to the Energy Saving Trust, the top energy saving tip for your home is to turn off appliances and electronics because 8 percent of domestic energy use in the U.K. is a result of appliances being left on standby.
When it comes to appliances, you don’t necessarily need to replace your washer and dryer just because they’re not energy efficient or eco-friendly, which would result in e-waste. Instead, wait until your appliances desperately need a replacement, and then take your old appliances to a recycling center and look for A-rated, energy-efficient models that save electricity and water.
Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Agents
Opting for environmentally friendly cleaning products is a small, yet important change you should make in your household. Look for cleaning agents made from natural ingredients to reduce your family’s footprint on the planet. Natural cleaning agents include those made from citrus oils, non-ionic surfactants and products without harsh bleaches.
Find Alternative Forms of Energy
For a bigger project, invest in alternative forms of energy for your home. For example, solar panels or photovoltaic (PV) cells take sunlight and convert it into electricity that you use throughout your home. If money is an issue, the Energy Saving Trust has an ongoing list of all the current incentives and grants you can receive for making cost-effective energy-saving improvements to your home and for households that generate electricity from renewable sources such as solar panels and wind.