Best of all, Fasullo says the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) covers 30% of the cost of the audit (up to $150), making this step a no-brainer. Here are doable, affordable options for reducing your carbon footprint. As plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, they act as natural purifiers. Adding plants and herbs helps bring the outdoors inside, which is especially important for homes without outdoor space.
Harvest Rainwater
You’ll be building your compost pile by topping a layer of browns with a layer of greens, repeating the process until you’ve used all your materials. While you can keep your compost bin inside, that’s not the ideal option. A compost pile requires turning as well as sufficient airflow and water for decomposition, so keeping your compost bin outside is best. “Composting success depends on a good flow of oxygen, so regularly turning the piles as well as incorporating water is key and might be a bit messy to manage indoors,” says Levine.
- Pesticide use can contaminate water, threatening local aquatic systems as well as the wider ecosystem.
- Some people may prefer to create their compost with a sturdy compost container or with an easy-to-turn bin.
- However, modern innovation has helped us develop double-glazed windows and roofs that are not only energy-efficient but also look attractive.
- There are many ways you can make your home more eco-friendly, ranging from smaller actions such as switching out the traditional grass lawn to the kind of house you choose to build.
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By carefully considering these factors, homeowners can design and build homes that are comfortable, energy-efficient, and sustainable. Another way to make How to make your home more environmentally friendly your outdoor space eco-friendly is to use permeable surfaces. Permeable surfaces allow water to soak into the ground, reducing runoff and erosion.
Use Stoves Efficiently
This can help improve water quality and reduce the risk of flooding. You can typically find a local native plant list online from the state websites, extension centers, a botanical garden, or even universities. A quick internet search for “native plant list” along with your city’s or state’s name will usually give you a good place to start. We’re in Missouri, and I love utilizing Missouri Botancial Garden or Grow Native’s detailed info. Then find some inspiration on Pinterest and get started designing a pollinator garden or simply swapping out areas with native plants. Using native plants can also help reduce the use of pesticides and fertilizers, which can harm the environment.
Choosing Sustainable Building Materials
- Units like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners consume a significant portion of your energy.
- From there, they head to landfills, where they take up space and release the greenhouse gas known as methane.
- To keep a healthy garden without using chemicals, use practices like companion planting, frequent crop rotation, and promoting plant health to boost natural pest resistance.
- Old windows may be more prone to drafts, allowing cold air in and hot air out.
- Use our underfloor heating cost guide to understand the typical costs involved in installing underfloor heating.
- With a passion for emerging tech, Katie is also excited to see what new devices and digital platforms the coming years will bring.
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