Tackling Climate Change in the Home

[Brendan David]

With the serious environmental issues faced with today, many think
it's unlikely that a single household can make a big difference. But
the truth is that every household has the ability to significantly cut
back on negative environmental impact. Moreover, if every household
took steps to become more environmentally conscious, the collective
effect would be truly remarkable.
However, when considering 'environmentally responsible' measures, many
people envision having to make major lifestyle changes. However,
taking on an eco-friendly attitude does not entail switching your
entire life around. There are a number of simple steps anyone can take
around the house to ultimately make a big difference to their
environmental impact.
First and foremost, ensure you start shutting off lights and
electrical items - from the television to your computer - when they
are not in use. Many people are in the habit of leaving things on when
they leave the room or even the house - and it ultimately makes a
massive difference, not only to the environment, but to their power
bill. You can even take this action a step further by switching off
any standby functions on electrical items, such as your television.
Another simple step you can take to save energy around the house is to
replace all your regular light bulbs with energy efficient bulbs.
Sure, you'll need to spend money on them up front - but they'll save
you a fortune in the long run, and the measure will certainly impact
the environment in a good way. Similarly, you might want to think
about replacing inefficient appliances around the house, as well as to
fit a jacket around your hot water tank to ensure all the heat isn't
escaping.
Find you're using too much heat during the winter? Lower your gas
usage - and bills - by shutting your curtains. Keeping your curtains
closed traps heat inside - and the thicker the curtains, the more
effective they'll be in keeping the heat in. And whilst on the topic
of heat, don't overfill the kettle when heating up water for tea or
coffee. Only place as much water as you need in the kettle, foregoing
superfluous energy use in the kitchen.
Last, but not least, try to take showers instead of baths. Studies
show that taking a five minute shower uses only one fifth of the water
that a bath does. And if you pair your shorter showers with an A-rated
gas boiler, you'll save even more energy and reduce your bills.
While looking after the environment is ultimately a huge task, we can
all do our part at home to ensure we save energy Indeed, it is
possible for anyone to cut energy usage in their home, and contribute
to a happier, healthier planet.

Create Electricity At Home: http://groups.google.com/group/homeenergymi/