Many countries are still practicing social distancing efforts in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Unfortunately, this means we may be using far more resources than we normally do as we spend more time at home.
It’s apparent that quarantine efforts have had some positive impacts on the environment. Some scientists are attributing the lower C02 rates to the reduction in the number of cars on the road. Lack of pollution also hit the news when dolphins returned to the rivers in Italy. As an individual, however, it’s still important to conserve resources from the comfort of your home, especially during quarantine.
Whether you’re working from home or filling your days with Netflix binges, here are some of the best ways to save energy and reduce pollution.
Make some home upgrades
If you’re a handy homeowner, now is the perfect opportunity to perform a home inspection. Since most people have started their spring cleaning regimen, this project might be easier than you think.
After all, a poorly insulated home could be wasting more than 10% of your heating and cooling. Check the attic to look for holes or signs of water damage, too. Since heat rises, your attic might be one of the worst offenders in your rising energy bills.
Along with checking your attic, you should also check your plumbing. A single leaky faucet could be wasting more than 3,000 gallons of water each year. Even if your landlord covers the cost of water in your rent, you still owe it to the planet to stop these leaks from happening. Luckily, most plumbers and home maintenance companies are open for emergency jobs. Do some basic research to see if you can tighten any pipes before relying on the professionals but be sure to call should anything go awry.
Unplug game systems
Many people are excited to use this time at home to catch up on video games. Unfortunately, video game systems are one of the worst energy vampires. This term refers to electronics that still use energy in your home if they are plugged in even when they’re not in use. While modern game systems are becoming more environmentally friendly compared to their older counterparts, these consoles are still likely sapping much of your energy use if they’re left plugged in.
Just like it’s important to turn off lights, it’s doubly essential to unplug game systems that aren’t in use. Check with your children to ensure these systems are unplugged at the end of the night. Making this a part of your routine is essential to prevent electronic energy vampires from raising your utility bills. Energy use in the United States is doubling every 20 years and statistics in the UK posit similar trends among consumers. Being aware of energy vampires is the first step to stopping these electronics from raising our bills.
Cook outside whenever possible
Some news sources claim that the real energy vampires are our big electronics, like our stoves, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Now that spring is finally here, cooking outside in the garden is finally achievable once more. Take advantage of your outdoor spaces and cook on the grill. Not only will you save energy, but you’ll get much-needed vitamin D during quarantine.
Plant some trees
Earth day might have been celebrated last month, but planting trees are still a great way to give back to the earth. Best of all, planting trees around your home can reduce the need for air conditioning services in the summer by around 30%. Nurturing plants is another great way to keep yourself busy during an otherwise boring quarantine.
Quarantine has been a difficult time for many, including your home. If you’re wasting more energy than usual, it’s up to you to reduce these bad habits. When you’re looking for ways to live a more environmentally-friendly life, rely on these tips to help.
