Photo via Pixabay by Cuncon
By Ginger Reid
Climate change is something that’s on a lot of people’s minds these days, but many of us either aren’t sure how to make changes that will help or are unsure of exactly what climate change is. There have been many discussions on this controversial topic, and many points of view on it have been shared, but the facts are staggering. Studies have shown that greenhouse gases are causing damage to the Earth’s atmosphere at an alarming rate, trapping heat and causing major changes to climate patterns all over the world. This, in turn, can lead to anything from drought to food shortages in
Fortunately, there are many things you can do at home to help, and they don’t have to break the bank. “Going green” is something many Americans have done in recent years, and while it can be a big lifestyle change, it’s also something that allows you to save money while helping the planet. Whether you want to conserve energy or grow your own food, now is the time to make those changes within your household and your community.
Keep reading for some great tips on how to get started.
Go energy-efficient
There are several ways you can make sure your home is energy-efficient, from turning off the lights every time you leave a room to buying appliances that use less energy to get the job done. Washers and dryers, dishwashers, stoves, and even hot water heaters are all doing their part these days to conserve energy, and while some of these may be more expensive than other options, they will save you money in the long run.
Change out your bulbs
The light bulbs you use at home are more than just a source of illumination; they can use up a lot of energy, jacking up your utility bills and requiring replacements often. That energy use is a contributor to your carbon footprint and can have an effect on global warming in general, so conservation is key. Change out your existing bulbs for LED lights, which can last for years and can save you money each month.
Start a garden
While growing your own food can be a time-consuming process, it can also be a hugely rewarding one. Consider starting a small garden where you can grow fresh veggies for your family to eat. Not only will this help save money on groceries, you’ll also be doing your part to reduce the amount of air pollution in your area. After all, those vegetables you buy at the supermarket have to be transported on trucks, which use fossil fuels and contribute greatly to the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Recycle
Recycling is a major part of reducing climate change, as many of the items we discard end up in a landfill. The more items you can reuse and recycle, the better. Before you throw something away, look for its value as something else; can you turn an old dresser into a playhouse for your child? Donate old clothing? Get the family involved, or organize a community-wide recycling program that everyone can participate in.
Making big changes to your home and your lifestyle can be stressful if you don’t have a good plan. Do your research and talk to your family members about the goal; give everyone a job so they can help out. Look for programs at school or at the local library that will get your community involved, and remember to set a good example at home. Energy conservation is one of the keys to reducing the effects of climate change, and it’s something we can all do.
