Have a More Sustainable Home

Summary

Creating a more sustainable home involves adopting practices and making changes that reduce your environmental impact. This includes energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and the use of eco-friendly materials. Sustainable living not only benefits the environment but can also lead to cost savings and a healthier living space.

Resources

1. Energy Star - Offers guidelines and product recommendations to improve home energy efficiency.
2. WaterSense - Provides resources and product listings to help conserve water in your home.
3. Earth911 - A comprehensive guide to recycling, upcycling, and reducing household waste.
4. Green Home Guide - Resources and tips for making eco-friendly choices in home design and renovation.
5. The Sustainable Living Guide - Offers practical advice and community support for living sustainably.

Example SMART Goals

1. Reduce household electricity consumption by 20% over the next 6 months by replacing all incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs and using smart power strips.
2. Decrease water usage by 15% in the next 4 months by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, and practicing mindful water usage habits.
3. Achieve a zero-waste kitchen by composting organic waste, eliminating single-use plastics, and purchasing bulk goods within the next 8 months.
4. Increase the use of renewable energy to 50% of household energy consumption by installing solar panels within the next year.
5. Cut down on household chemical cleaners by 75% in the next 3 months by switching to homemade or eco-friendly cleaning products.

Example Habits

1. Turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use to conserve energy.
2. Collect and use rainwater for gardening and outdoor cleaning tasks.
3. Regularly check and maintain home insulation and weather stripping to improve energy efficiency.
4. Recycle and compost household waste consistently to reduce landfill contributions.
5. Choose reusable items over disposable ones, such as cloth napkins, metal straws, and glass containers.