A Low-Impact Lifestyle: 7 Tips To Reduce Your Household’s Impact on the Environment
The past April was the fifth warmest on record, and estimations for summer 2022 tell us that this year is likely to secure a spot in the top warmest years in history. As global warming worsens and the weather becomes more unpredictable, it has never been more important for everyone to feel more accountable and take steps towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
However, when looking at what is happening around the world, it is easy to feel discouraged and lose hope. Luckily, there is a lot that you and your family can do to lower your overall environmental impact and live in harmony with the planet and the community. Wondering how to get started? Check out the tips below!
Downsize Your Home and Declutter
Over the years, the average US home for the same-size family has been consistently growing in size. At the same time, the more square footage you have, the more likely you are to fill it. And, you will need to invest more resources in heating it up, cooling it down, and keeping it in tip-top shape.
And all of these actions – from buying more items to consuming more energy – create a significant impact on the environment. Ultimately, if you are looking to start living more sustainably, the first step to take is to reduce your possessions and square footage, and, for this, adopting a minimalist mindset can work wonders!
Insulate Your Home and Use Your HVAC System Wisely
Your home’s insulation plays a vital role in optimizing the use of your cooling and heating system. With the right insulation system, you can minimize your heating costs while also maintaining a comfortable indoor environment for the whole family. But how can you be sure to have appropriate insulation? Working with an energy efficient window contractor or insulation specialist is the first step to take toward a more efficient home.
Additionally, don’t forget to start using your HVAC system wisely! Using a smart thermostat and educating your family about switching off lights and unplugging unused devices can help you prevent energy waste and lower your energy costs.
When you can, consider avoiding using appliances altogether! For example, now that the summer months are here, consider switching to air-drying your clothes and hand washing your dishes!
Ditch Plastic and Work Towards Living a Zero-Waste Life
Avoiding plastic and harmful chemicals is not just a way to reduce your impact on the environment, but it can also safeguard the health and safety of your family!
Instead, opt for products that are packaged in natural materials and obtain only natural ingredients. If you are working towards a zero-waste lifestyle, becoming more mindful about how you shop and what you buy is essential!
Choose a Plant-Based Diet
Studies have confirmed long ago that a vegetarian diet has a far lower environmental impact than an omnivore diet – and that a vegan or plant-based diet is even better! So, if you are looking to change your lifestyle to reduce your household’s impact, consider switching to a diet that focuses on plant-based proteins, whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
Unsure how to get started? Projects like Meatless Monday and Veganuary can be a great starting point and give you an understanding of what to expect from your next chapter!
Choose a Different Way To Go to Work
If you are mostly using your car for your commute, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact by choosing another way to get to work. For example, you might sign up for schemes like Cycling to Work, which are recognized by some employers and might even grant you some benefits.
If you live nearby, consider walking to work and combining your exercise time with your commuting time. Oppositely, if you can’t cycle to work and you live far away, speak to your employer and ask whether there are hybrid work options you can benefit from.
Shop Local and Support the Community
Sustainability starts at the grocery store, and there is nothing more sustainable than buying supplies from local merchants and retailers! Aside from shortening the impact involved with shipping, producing, and delivering items from around the world, shopping at local stores allows you to support the community and boost the economy.
Volunteer and Help Local Associations
If you have spare time on your hand, or you are looking for the next hobby to try with your family, consider volunteering at a local association. Doing so will give you the chance to strengthen your ties with the local community, do something great for the environment, and, according to studies, safeguard your mental health and happiness!