Self-sufficient living and housing have been growing trends over the years. Building an eco-friendly house brings about several benefits. You’ll reduce the cost of your utility bills. You’ll minimize the size of your carbon footprint. It will also improve your house’s selling points and resale value. A study commissioned by the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment found that home buyers are willing to pay from $10,000 to $53,000 for green features. Check out these five steps that you can take for a more self-reliant home:
Solar Is the Way
Install a Tesla Powerwall in your Salt Lake City home to save on your electricity bills. After collecting and using solar energy in the day, it stores the rest until your house needs the power. It’s especially helpful if your area is prone to a lot of power outages or if you work from home. You can also have solar-powered outdoor lights, power banks, and phone cases. Think of going solar as an investment: once you pay for the item, you’ll reduce your electric bills forever.
Another benefit is that you can help the environment. A study by University of California, Berkeley found that a home can cut its carbon emissions by 80% using solar energy.
Channel your inner green thumb and start planting. It’s a great way to maximize your yard space and encourage more greens in your family’s diet. If it’s your first time to tend plants, start small with herbs such as basil and parsley. When you’re comfortable with your yield, you can move on to vegetables. Doing so will ensure that the greens in your meals are fresh and without pesticides.
The act of gardening itself is beneficial for the physical health of people with high blood pressure, coronary diseases, and more. It requires moderate level of exercise and exposure to sunlight. Aside from the physical health benefits, it can improve your mental health as well. An article by the National Center for Biotechnology Information says that gardening can also help with mental conditions such as post traumatic stress disorder and dementia.
If you have a garden, beekeeping is a great way to improve your plants’ yield. Vegetables and fruits, such as broccoli, apples, and melons, rely on bees for pollination. Obviously, another benefit to having bees is the authentic honey. It’s estimated to be the third most forged food in the world. It’s also been proven to kill bacteria, soothe sore throats, and improve endurance.
If you decide to tend beehives, make sure that you consider all factors. Check if there are local policies against it in your area. Make sure that you have enough space so that you don’t disturb your neighbors. Consider that the bee population is in decline and that beekeeping is a serious venture. You don’t want to contribute to the trend that could lead to higher food prices.
Leading an informed and eco-friendly lifestyle has many fulfilling benefits. You feel good while reaping the rewards …