In celebration of Earth Hour on March 30th we’ve compiled a list of 10 easy steps to reduce your household carbon footprint!

 

Invest in Re-Useable Household Items

Re-useable water bottles, coffee cups and grocery bags are commonly known items that help reduce waste.  Take it one step further by bringing re-usable food containers when shopping at bulk food stores instead buying packaged foods and storing leftovers in re-useable containers vs. plastic wrap.  When you’re cleaning, try to use cloth towels as opposed to paper towels and disposable wipes that are loaded with harsh chemicals.

 

Become a Non-Toxic Household

Not only is switching to natural products environmentally friendly, it’s also safer for pets and children.  Using natural ingredients such as baking soda, lemon juice and vinegar can help you tackle any chore and will even help you save money!

 

Become a Green Commuter

If you’re travelling a short distance, try walking or biking whenever possible.  For those with a longer commute, try switching to public transit, or carpooling with a neighbour, friend or colleague.

 

Re-think the Light in Your House

Longer days filled with more sunlight have arrived!  Turn off your lights, and open your curtains to let the natural sunlight in whenever possible to reduce the amount of energy you’re using.  You can also reduce your carbon footprint by replacing light bulbs with CFLs (compact fluorescent light bulbs) or LED bulbs.  Opening the windows to let fresh air into your home will also help clear out germs and stale air to contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

 

Donate Gently Used Items

Instead of throwing out old clothes, household items and toys, why not donate them?  Someone else will get to enjoy your gently used items, and you’ll help to save the planet!

 

Switch to Online Billing

Making the switch to paperless billing will reduce your carbon footprint, and your household clutter! Some companies even offer incentives for making the switch.

 

Responsibly Recycle or Donate Electronics

Most electronics contain hazardous materials that aren’t safe in our landfills.  If you’re no longer using an electronic in working condition, donate it!  If it’s no longer working, visit your local municipality website to find information on safe drop off locations where they will be recycled responsibly.  Many municipalities harvest the precious metals with electronics so they can be used again.

 

Borrow Instead of Buying

Instead of buying a dress for a wedding that you’ll only wear once, or a casserole dish you’ll only use twice, why not borrow from a friend?  If you’re buddies with your neighbour, try sharing lawn care and snow removal equipment.

 

Plant an Herb and Vegetable Garden

Not only will you be guaranteed fresh food, grown chemical free, even growing a small garden with few items can help reduce your carbon footprint by reducing the amount of packaging you bring home from the grocery store.  Another bonus: you can compost organic waste to help fertilize your garden!

 

Reduce Phantom Power

Chances are if your electronics are plugged in, they’re wasting energy even if they’re not in use.  Stop them from drawing power when they aren’t in use by plugging electronics and chargers into a power bar with an auto shut off.