• To reduce energy consumption, ensure all lights are off before leaving a room and invest in energy-saving bulbs and appliances. Avoid running the dishwasher when it is half full, plugging in the chest freezer when it is empty, not changing air filters, using hot water to wash clothes, and failing to program your thermostat or setting it too high.
• Insulation lowers heat loss during winter and minimizes its entry in the summer. Invest in entry doors made of fiberglass, aluminum or steel as well as filling floor, door and window gaps.
• Utilise renewable energy sources at home such as water, solar, wind and geothermal to reduce your reliance on imported energy and lower your carbon footprint for environmental conservation. Practice recycling materials such as paper, glass or plastic to mitigate waste going to landfills through reduced energy consumption.
• Replace conventional cleaning supplies with eco-friendly products that are non-toxic such as ammonia or bleach to avoid skin reactions. Cut down water consumption by repairing leaking faucets, collecting water while washing fruits/vegetables, using special shower heads that cut usage by up to 50%, etc.
• Choose building materials carefully which minimize pollution and facilitate recyclable

12 ways to live a more sustainable life

1. Think before you shop and become and environmentally conscious consumer

2. Ditch the plastic water bottles

3. Speaking of water.... be water wise! Here are 100 Ways to Conserve Wise 

4. Eat less meat (Resources: Take Extinction Off Your Plate and Reducing Your Footprint 

 

5. Reduce your household energy use by using the right lightbulb

6. Quit using ridiculous disposable products  

7. Support fashion brands that are ethical and environmentally conscious: Loomstate, Patagonia, and Reformation are just a few you may want to check out

8. Use washable stainless steel straws instead of disposable plastic straws

9. Borrow books from the library instead of purchasing them directly or buy them used from a local used bookstore (now you're buying used AND local!)

10. Donate unused clothing and household items to The Salvation Army

11. Buy second-hand

12. Support local and indie businesses

How many of these do you already do? Which do you feel has the greatest impact?