There are many things we can do to lessen our impact on the environment and improve the quality of our homes. Here are four of our favourite tips - simple things that can make a big difference.
- Switch to compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). CFLs use less than half the energy of regular light bulbs and they last much longer, meaning lower electricity costs and less frequent replacement. While they're more expensive to purchase, you'll actually save money over the long term.
- Replace your conventional window coverings and other textiles with eco-alternatives. Traditional blinds, shower curtains, mattresses, and other typical household items are made from, or contain, polyurethane or petroleum by-products which are extremely bad for the environment. We're not saying throw everything out and buy everything new. Instead, when an item needs to be replaced, choose products made from natural and renewable materials that don't contain toxins or chemicals. Choose products made from bamboo, hemp, organic cotton, and non-treated materials.
- Make a conscious effort to save water. We live in a country where it is very easy to take fresh water for granted. In the bathroom and in the kitchen, there are many simple, cost-effective ways to reduce water usage, from turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, to installing water control devices on your faucets. Switch out your old water-wasting shower head for a new low-flow model. If you're able to invest a bit more, switch to a low-flow toilet.
- Donate your used household items. Donating your old mattress or used microwave keeps unnecessary waste out of our landfills, and helps someone who might not otherwise be able to purchase these items. Charitable organizations and thrift stores accept a wide range of household goods. And many companies offer programs that take back items that can be reused or recycled. Another option is to find a different use for old items before they are thrown away. Use your old towels to dry the dog after his walk in the rain, or your old clothes as "scrubbies" for doing household chores.
Where to Find Help for Patio and Yard
With spring in the air, let's begin with the outdoors. Whether you have a sprawling back yard or a private balcony, the options are unlimited.
One of the first signs of spring is the aroma of the barbecue. Some types are not eco-friendly, such as hydrocarbon-producing coal and wood-burners, and fossil fuel-consuming gas grills. But there are ways to minimize the environmental impact and still enjoy this warm-weather favourite.
The first thing you can do is choose an electric grill or, as a second choice, gas. The newer the grill, the more efficient it will be. If your existing grill needs a tune-up, remember that a new igniter or new burners can restore a gas barbecue that has seen better days. And if you just can't do without the good old traditional method, eco-friendly charcoal is now available. You'll find it at Home Depot.
When dining outside, nobody wants to use grandma's fine china, so choose either eco-friendly disposable dishes that will biodegrade in the landfill, or brightly patterned reusable dishes designed with barbecues and picnics in mind. These products can be found at Linens 'n Things, The Bay, Bowring and HomeSense.
You can shine an eco-friendly light on outdoor festivities just as you would indoors, by replacing your incandescent light bulbs with CFLs. And, with many outdoor lights left burning 24/7, this simple conversion produces significant energy savings and environmental benefits.
Even more efficient than CFLs are LED lights (light emitting diodes). A relatively new product and not as widely available, LEDs are the top "green" choice.
Exterior light sensors are not only a great security feature, but an energy-saver as well. There's no point in lighting up the yard when everyone's in bed.
And finally, solar lights are perfect for pathway lighting and for highlighting a garden at night. They're available in many sizes and styles, and can really dress up a yard.
