- On
- 2 Dec 2021
- Reading time
- 4 minutes
Going green is necessary for the reduction of pollutants in the environment which contribute to other environmental hazards that can cause decline in health and also depletion of the ozone layer. The ozone layer is needed to protect us from ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun because direct exposure to this radiation can alter various biological phenomena.
There are several little things that can be done in our homes in order to have a green home which in the long run contribute to our sustainable living, other than choosing a green energy supplier.
Here are 7 expert recommended ideas on how to be more sustainable at home.
1. Conserve electric current by unplugging unused appliances at home
Stable power supply is generated by the use of fossil power plants which require coal to produce electricity. One of the ways to go green at home, is cutting the amount of electricity you consume by unplugging appliances you are not in need of, and by switching off lights after leaving your room or home. Doing this minimizes the amount of fossil fuel released into the environment and prevents the harmful effect that the accumulation of this can cause.
2. By reducing your plastic waste
Plastic is one of the major causes of pollution. Degradation of plastics does not occur over a long period of time and its accumulation in the environment can pose a detrimental effect to the natural environment. Harmful gases which are toxic to the body are released during incineration of gases and this negatively affects the health of both animals and humans, as well as plants which are consumed by them.
How to Go Green at Home Using Reusable Plastics
• You can go for a reusable water container or BPA-free plastic bottle. (Bisphenol A is a chemical used for the manufacturing of durable plastic and it can find its way into the system and consequently alter body cell functions).
• Use cloth-based shopping bags for groceries.
• Reusable food container instead of disposal plastic containers.
• Use reusable straw.
3. How to go green at home with plants: go green with gardens
Plants play crucial importance in the existence of man. Apart from serving as a source of food, they positively affect the environment we live in. Trees help prevent global warming by making use of carbon dioxide for the synthesis of their food and producing oxygen back into the environment. They also protect both our physical and mental health, they serve as barriers to UV radiation and reduce our exposure to the sun. Furthermore, they help in trapping pollutants from our environment, while also playing a significant role in reducing our stress level - being in a natural environment full of vegetation gives a calming effect which in turn increases our productivity.
4. Install solar panels
Electricity generated by solar panels does not cause emission of gases into the environment; it serves as a clean source of energy directly from the sun. They are environment friendly, likewise pocket friendly. By Installing solar panels in your home, you are also contributing to the development of a sustainable environment.
5. Air dry your clothes
Pondering on how to go green at home? Why not consider air drying your clothes. Dryers consume much electricity and you can conserve lots of energy by air drying your clothes. In fact, you should know that air drying your clothes outdoor has a number of advantages, which include:
• Line drying deodorizes and gives your clothes freshness.
• Line drying is gentle to cloth fibers and does not cause much shrinkage. This is in contrast to using dryers which cause wear and stress on your clothes, which in turn leads to weakening of cloth fiber and ultimately damage.
• Line drying or air drying is cost effective, as it is an efficient way of saving money.
6. How to go green with cleaning products? Make your own home cleaning solutions
Home-made cleaning supplies do not pose a threat to the environment and they also prevent the depletion of the ozone layer, unlike industrial cleaning chemicals which contain toxic and harmful chemicals that cause environmental hazards.
7. How to go green at home with organic foods
Organic foods are grown without the use of synthetic chemicals, hormones or antibiotics. This means they are grown without chemicals that are toxic to humans and can negatively affect biological function of the body such as metabolism. In the end, organic foods are not just cheaper, but they are also healthier, and helps in contributing to a green environment.
Final Notes
Going green contributes to the reduction of pollutants that affect the health of humans, animals and plants. It also helps in the prevention of global warming which is influenced by changes in climate and temperature. By all means, going green is a great cause, and by following the expert recommended tips above, you will be contributing a great deal to that cause!