8 Easy Things You Can Do to Help the Earth and Save Money
Our Earth is the only planet we have, the only place we know that we can call home. That’s why it is so important that we look after it! There are lots of simple and easy things we can do to make sure we are caring for our waters, air, land, and the animals and people in it.
In honour of Earth Day, we have put together a list of 8 things you can do to care for the environment.
1. Compost your Food Scraps
Composting a clean and green way to dispose of your food scraps. The compost process uses oxygen to break down food and other organic matter and turns it into rich, nutrient-dense soil. This process of decomposition is different to the way food breaks down in the landfill. In the landfill, the food simply rots without the help of oxygen, and therefore, releases methane, which is a harmful greenhouse gas. Composting doesn’t produce methane and recycles organic matter so that it can be used in your garden. It is a much more environmentally friendly way to get rid of food scraps and will save you lots of money over time on rubbish bags and rubbish removal tags! If you live in Auckland, you can now use the food scraps bins which is a new way of recycling our food waste, similar to composting, in a way that doesn’t harm the environment.
2. Choose Energy Efficient Appliances
If you are in the market for a new washing machine, fridge or any other large appliance, make sure you invest in one that has a high energy efficiency rating. Energy efficient appliances will simply use the least amount of energy possible to perform the task. Less energy consumption is healthy for the environment and will save you money on your power bill! Old fridges can consume lots of electricity. So if you have an old one sitting in your garage, you might want to consider upgrading it!
The Importance of Energy Efficiency
3. Consider Solar Power
Did you know that solar panels can generate enough energy to cover a good chunk of your power bill? And even cover an entire month’s worth of electricity? How cool is that! Solar panels are an investment to get installed. However, they require very little maintenance and have long life times. They are a true investment in reducing energy consumption for the planet thanks to the clean, green and renewable energy source that is our sun and for your wallet over time.
4. Conserve Water
There are lots of small habits you can make to save water and reduce your water bill. Run the dishwasher only when it’s full and try the eco setting. Run the washing machine when it’s full and only on cold water to save power. When you shower, pause the water while you are shampooing your hair or shaving. You could even keep a bucket in the shower and use that water for your garden. If it is time to invest in a new washing machine, be sure to grab one with a high water rating so that it uses the least amount of water possible to clean your clothes. You can use PriceMe to compare the water and energy efficiency of your washing machine and find the cheapest price in minutes!
5. Plant Trees and Other Greenery
Did you know that trees and plants absorb the carbon dioxide in the air? That’s right. They literally clean our air and help produce oxygen for us to breathe. You can plant trees and other flora and fauna in your garden, or in pots on your apartment balcony. The greenery will not only elevate the visual aesthetic and spirit of your home decor and garden, but it will help keep your air clean!
6. Use LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs are becoming more and more common in household electricals. You’ll find them in lots of overhead lights and lamps these days. But if you still have some older non-LED light bulbs lurking in your home, you can swap them for LED bulbs to save money and be kinder to the planet. LED light bulbs are far more energy efficient than traditional bulbs, meaning they will keep your home bright and warm and use much less energy to do so.
7. Carry Cups and Reusable Water Bottles
Take your morning coffee or tea to work in an insulated carry cup to keep warm or iced, and prevent the need to buy a takeaway coffee in a single-use cup. You’ll save money by making your morning brew at home and reduce the amount of single-use waste you consume. Invest in a reusable water bottle that you can refill instead of needing to buy a plastic water bottle from the gas station. Remember to always bring your reusable bags when you go grocery shopping.
8. Start a Veggie Garden
You can save a lot of money in the long run by having your own vegetable and herb garden. Plant your favourite fruits and vegetables, and herbs! Over time, as you nourish your garden and let it grow, you’ll be able to reduce the amount of fresh produce you need to buy at the store, which will minimise your carbon footprint. After all, the fresh produce in the supermarket had to be transported there by a truck that expelled greenhouse gases in its transit. You’ll also, of course, save money in the long run. Vegetables always taste better when they’ve been grown with love in your garden!