Lately there has been a lot of emphasis on efforts to save the planet. Whether it is the growing concern for the oil spill in the Gulf or our dependence on fossil fuels, more people are becoming aware of the very real need to do something about environmental pollution and global warming before it becomes to late. It isnt always necessary to work on a global level, although there is a time and place for that. If each and every person learned how to save the earth at home, our efforts would make a substantial dent in the world wide crisis.
1. Renewable Energy - If you have the means at your disposal, using renewable energy at home has a major impact on both the amount of fossil fuels utilized to manufacture electric as well as in the carbon footprint burning fossil fuels leaves. Solar panels, windmills and hydropower are just a few examples of renewable energy that can be used at home.
2. Energy Efficient Appliances - Whenever your appliances breakdown or wear out, always look for appliances that have been labeled Energy Star compliant. They use less electricity, and as a result, there is less of a drain on our natural resources. Here again, using less electricity means fewer carbon emissions being released into the atmosphere.
3. Conserve Electricity - There are a million and one ways to conserve electricity. When you leave a room, turn off the lights. When you are not using electronics or appliances, unplug them. Even appliances that are switched off drain a trickle of current, so keep them unplugged. Use compact fluorescent or LED lights instead of incandescent bulbs as they use less energy.
4. Avoid Toxic Chemicals - There are actually two areas of focus when referring to the avoidance of toxic chemicals. Not only should you avoid using fertilizers and pesticides on your lawn to reduce pollution to the water supply, but it is equally important to avoid paints and other aerosols that release chemicals into the air.
5. Reduce, Reuse and Recycle - Of course the environmentalists mantra should always be on the tip of your tongue. Reducing waste and dependence on fossil fuels is a good place to start. Reuse whatever you can, and recycle anything and everything that can still be used.
If each person made an effort to learn how to save the earth at home, our efforts would make a difference. Although it may take many lifetimes to repair the damage, it isnt too late at this point in time. However, in the very near future there may come a point of no return so our efforts today can save the earth for generations yet to come. Whenever possible, lobby government leaders and boycott corporations that knowingly cause so much destruction. If we work together, our voices will be heard.
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