If you have just moved home or are turning over a new leaf after being inspired by the breathtaking vistas of that recent guided tour of Mont Blanc then this is for you. A new house, new neighbourhood, maybe even new friends. With this move, why not also adopt a new lifestyle and commit to a more environmentally friendly home?
There are several benefits of being environmentally conscious—a clean home for future generations, various health benefits, and a good living environment are just a few.
However, another big advantage of going green is that there are monetary savings to be had. With less waste and more
energy efficiency in your home, you will be able to save money for the more important things in life—family, friends, food, and fun!
Here are 4 ways to be more environmentally friendly in your new home:
Proper insulation
One of the biggest culprits of energy waste is a poorly insulated home. This is where windows come in—
double glazing reduces drafts and prevents heat loss. As such, you will have to spend less money and energy in running your central heating system.
This in turn reduces your carbon footprint and is less of a burden on your pocket. With better insulation, you have a more comfortable home without creating a significant, negative impact on the Earth.
A properly fitted window, with double or triple glazing, that is made from recycled materials is the ultimate step to having an energy efficient home. Take a look at window installers in your area so you can benefit from proper insulation in your new home!
Use green home products
Now is the time to ditch those harsh, chemical cleaning products and use more environmentally friendly supplies. You can buy these at the shop or you can make your own. If you purchase these products from the shop, make sure to go carefully over the ingredients list so that you know you are cleaning with fully natural supplies.
With green cleaning products, you reduce both outdoor and indoor pollution and create a healthier living environment for you and your family. These do not have strong chemical scents and are perfect for getting any cleaning job done. Cleaning experts at
Maids a la Mode suggest that off-putting odours are one of the main reasons more and more households are adopting green cleaning products. A lot of homeowners have complained that the scent of bleach in chemical cleaners tend to make them feel nauseous, which is not an issue with green cleaning products.
Biodegradable detergents, natural all-purpose cleaner concentrate, soft on the skin soaps, and recycled paper towels are easily available. For the more adventurous, you can create your own
cleaning concoctions from items you have in your pantry or natural ingredients.
Have a green move
Starting your new green lifestyle doesn’t have to start after you have moved, you can start beforehand! Think about the
moving process to your new home—a lot of boxes, wrapping paper, and plastic bags that will only be used once.
Luckily, there is a recent trend in the moving industry where you can rent reusable plastic containers that will then be transported by your moving company. These containers are made from recycled materials and are much more environmentally healthy and sturdy than regular cardboard boxes.
Also, you should ask your
moving company whether they follow any green business practices, such as carbon neutral schemes, alternative fuel sources, and eco-friendly packaging.
Plant some green friends
One of the best things you can do for a greener lifestyle is to set up a garden. Creating a thriving ecosystem in your backyard is perfect for promoting an environmentally conscious mindset.
Why not try growing your own fruit and veg? You will have a good supply of fresh food ready to be added to delicious home-cooked meals. The health benefits are immense.
If a full outdoor garden is a bit too much, then don’t worry, you can bring a few plants indoors as well. Plants have
multiple benefits—they help purify the air and get rid of any harmful pollutants, reduce stress, and aid in maintaining humidity levels.
Having a small garden is easy to maintain. Try placing a few plants that need direct sunlight on your window sill.
Bay windows are perfect for plants as they incorporate maximum sunlight into your home.