Make a Difference by Reducing Your Carbon Footprint

Reduce the Amount of Energy Your House Uses

It is an important goal to reduce your impact on the environment and lessen your dependence on fossil fuels so that our actions, as humans, have less of an impact on our surrounding environment. If you take a moment or two to analyze your everyday actions, there are many ways that you can painlessly reduce your carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is how much carbon dioxide emission you are directly and indirectly putting into the atmosphere by your everyday actions. Your home is the best place to start to think about ways you can reduce your carbon footprint by gauging the amount of electricity, gas and other natural resources that you are using every day. Even the products that you purchase every day make an impact on the environment, some brands more than others. Monitoring your use of resources at home can influence your overall environmental impact and can reduce your monthly expenses.

Discover Simple Yet Effective Ways to Enjoy a More Sustainable Lifestyle

There are many tips and tricks that can be employed in the home that are very simple and effective. The best place to start is with the high energy-use heating and cooling systems, which account for on average 45% of household energy. For each degree you raise the setting on your thermostat you can save 3% in cooling costs. Close the curtains during the hot day and keep windows ajar at night to let in cooler air and conserve that energy. Use a ceiling fan where it is practical in less utilized spaces, and watch dollars fall off your annual electricity bills. Electronic devices, every household possesses in great number, use up electricity even when not in use. Be sure to unplug all appliances when not needed, especially cell phone chargers, TVs and computers. It is estimated that the average household can save around $250 in lower fuel costs each year from this alone.

Even the light bulbs that you buy for your home can have a big impact on your energy usage. A 13 watt compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulb will light your home as well as a 60-watt traditional incandescent light bulb. Not only does this make a big difference in your power use, the new style of fluorescent bulb will burn longer as well. Another option is to at least occasionally allow your clothes to hang out to dry, rather than always operating the dryer which uses a ton of energy. Choosing a shower over a bath is also a great way to cut back on energy use.

Reduce Your Garden's Carbon Footprint

Your landscaping can also become a model of carbon neutral efficiency. Why not plant a tree to provide that extra bit of shade. They are attractive, inexpensive and reduce the CO2 in our air while creating extra oxygen. Encourage friends and neighbors to follow your example and it is a simple step that can even add a little value to your property. Cut down on all but necessary sprinkler use and why not use a push lawn mower? It never breaks down or runs out of gas and helps you stay in shape at the same time. Consider setting aside a small plot of land for your very own vegetable or herb garden. What could be more satisfying than enjoying your very own home grown vegetable? You can save hundreds of dollars on grocery bills, not to mention fewer trips to the grocery store mean less carbon emissions from your car.

Many newly built homes take sustainable lifestyles to the next level with solar and geothermal powered heating and cooling systems. Yet the average household need not invest much, just a little creativity and a commitment to help reduce each home's carbon footprint. The average American emits over 20 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year, which is over six times the global average, and every little step in the right direction makes a difference.