Using Technology to Help You Lead a Greener Lifestyle

Living green is a journey. Changes have to be made in daily activities and creature comforts. The efforts are worth it, though, because they ultimately help the environment. And while it may sound counterintuitive, making technology part of your efforts can make the process easier.

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Energy-efficient appliances

The Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy have a special program that rates appliances based on their energy use. It’s called Energy Star, and while the standards for the rating depend on the product, the appliance is likely to be more efficient than what you currently have installed. Energy Star appliances run the gamut from dishwashers to refrigerators to water heaters to furnaces. And switching to Energy Star-rated appliances could also yield a rebate from your utility or the government. In addition to reducing your energy usage, these appliances can also help you reduce your utility costs.

LED light bulbs

While the cost will be more upfront, swapping LED bulbs for incandescents can help save on your electricity bill. Not only do LEDs last longer, but they use less energy. You can also find smart home light bulbs, which you can control from an app on your phone or through a digital assistant like an Echo or Google Home device.

Dual-flush toilets

If you have older model toilets in your home, these are significant water hogs. Every time you flush the toilet, you could be flushing as many as seven gallons down the drain. Switching to a dual-flush is a great way to curb your water consumption, and these can be relatively inexpensive to swap out, though you’ll likely need a plumber to assist with installation.

Smart thermostats

Installing a smart thermostat is a great way to reduce your energy usage. This Old House explains the beauty of smart thermostats is their ability to determine your temperature patterns and preferences throughout the day and adjust as needed. So if you’re home on a winter afternoon, your thermostat might be set at 68 degrees, whereas once you go to bed, it might switch itself to 65 or lower to conserve energy. Plus, these can easily integrate with smart home assistants and can be controlled through apps on your phone.

Solar panels

Many people have turned to solar panels as a means of reducing their energy consumption. While this can be an expensive proposition, it can end up bringing you significant savings in the long-term depending on where you live.

First, HowStuffWorks explains you will need to determine if they will be efficient for your home, and you’ll need to assess their angle, orientation, whether you have shade, the weather in your area, your electricity demands, and your voltage. Solar panels have come a long way since they gained popularity in the 70s. They’re more efficient, less of an eyesore, and more accessible for the general homeowner. You can buy them or rent them and install them yourself or hire someone to do it. Either way, you’ll be saving money and helping the environment.

Engage on a grander scale

Changing things on your personal level is one thing, but if you really want to effect change, consider something bigger. For instance, if you always dreamed of starting your own business and you’re seriously considering diving in, you could help the environment. Along with creating a business plan, registering your business, and hiring employees, make green policies part of your plan.

And if you want to go even bigger with your impact, connect with your local government, explaining that other locations have seen economic growth linked with greener living. Seemingly simple changes, like improving a town’s walkability, can make a big difference in the environment, and a big difference in the health of area businesses.

Are You Ready for a Greener Lifestyle?

If you’re brand new to living a green lifestyle, it might seem overwhelming. There are lots of blogs and articles devoted to helping you adapt to a greener mindset and that offer tips for getting started. Take it a step at a time, and know that your choices now will benefit the planet later.