Simple and effective ways to make your home more eco-friendly.
Where energy saving lightbulbs and rechargeable batteries set the trend in previous decades, the new range of products and initiatives flooding the market will take your breath away, whilst potentially saving you money in the process!
Low flow showerhead
Attachable showerheads can come in at just a few bucks but reduce water usage by up to 75%, whilst still enabling a relaxing, reviving experience. These can save so many dollars in a year you’ll have earned your money back in the first month!
Coffee pod conflict
Most of us have coffee down as one of life’s necessities, yet the flavour, texture, and sheer caffeine power of coffee pod technology means a huge amount of plastic thrown into regular waste.
The solution is to recycle pods. Most coffee brands will have recycling bags that washed-out pods can be sent off in, or better still, go back to ‘ground’ level by swapping your pod dispenser for a cafetiere.
Steel straws
Forget dated plastic or horribly flimsy paper versions, only a steel straw will really do when it comes to proper drinks and dedicated environmentalism. Reusable thousands of times and across many years – just ensure they’re cleaned properly with a wire brush and hot water.
Recycled pens
Pilot’s B2P pens are made from old water bottles, with 80% of the company’s range comprising recycled plastic parts. They’re also making a big push on replacing ink cartridges rather than the entire pen, meaning even your shopping list itself can be environmentally friendly.
Cotton pads for flannels
Here’s a simple swap that will hold back the non-organic cotton farming industry, which represents a major source of environmental pollution.
Instead of cotton pads to remove makeup at the end of each day, use a dedicated, soft flannel, which can be washed and reused.
Energy-saving power switches
It’s a little-known fact, but even turned-off appliances still draw energy, a phenomenon known as ‘phantom load’ or ‘vampire energy’. The biggest culprits are TVs, games consoles, and music systems, swiftly followed by home office equipment, kitchen appliances, and the plethora of phone chargers we have around the house.
Last year, the US Department of Energy said that 75% of the energy used to power home electronics and appliances is consumed when the products are turned off!
The way around this is either to unplug them completely, or install energy-saving power switches to eliminate the pull.
