As society becomes increasingly aware of the impact of human activity on the environment, homeowners are becoming more responsible in their environmental practices. The exteriors of homes can be a great place to start when aiming to improve a home’s eco-friendliness. A few simple changes can make a huge difference in the carbon footprint of your home, and the good news is it doesn’t have to be costly. Here are some things to consider when improving a home’s exterior with the environment in mind.
Low Maintenance Landscaping
If you’re planning on updating your home’s landscaping, consider using plants that require little water, fertilizer, or pesticides. Native plants are ideal for this purpose as they have already adapted to the local climate and, once established, require minimal watering.
Be mindful of runoff water as well, and choose permeable surfaces where possible. This will help reduce the amount of water that leaves your property and prevent erosion.
If possible, consider replacing any imported plants with native varieties. This will help support local wildlife, and a healthier ecosystem benefits everyone.
Use Renewable & Eco-friendly Systems
When renovating any part of the exterior of your home, consider using materials that are eco-friendly. Sustainable materials can come from a variety of sources, such as reclaimed wood, recycled plastic, and composite decking. Not only is this better for the environment, but it can also improve the aesthetic value of your home and, ultimately, increase its resale value. Here are some other ideas:
Solar Panels
Using solar panels to generate electricity is an effective and sustainable way to reduce your impact on the environment. The initial investment may be high, but over time, the savings on your energy bills will more than make up for it. Not only do solar panels save you money and reduce your carbon footprint, but depending on your local laws, you may be eligible for tax incentives or grants for installing them.
Rainwater Harvesting
Capturing rainwater can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to supplement your home’s water supply. This can be achieved by installing a rain barrel or building a larger-scale rainwater harvesting system.
The water collected can be used for tasks such as watering your garden, washing your car, or even flushing your toilet. Not only does this reduce your water bills, but it also reduces the amount of water flowing into your local stormwater systems.
Composting
Composting is an effective way to reduce waste and return valuable nutrients to the soil. You can use your compost in your garden, lawn, or even indoors in containers. Composting diverts organic material from landfills and gives you a supply of nutrient-rich fertilizer that’s free for the taking.
Build a Sustainable Pool
If you’re looking to add a pool to your property, there are options available that can help reduce your environmental impact. Here are some examples:
Use CO2-based pH Control
Opting for a CO2-based pH control system to efficiently adjust swimming pool pH can be beneficial for both the environment and your wallet. These systems use carbon dioxide to adjust the chlorine levels, so you won’t need to purchase additional chemicals. This also decreases the amount of toxic runoff from your pool, making it safer for local wildlife.
Use Natural Heating Systems
Instead of using conventional heating systems which run off electricity, look into natural energy sources such as solar or geothermal systems. These types of heating can reduce your pool’s carbon footprint and lower your energy costs significantly.
Use Eco-friendly Filters and Treatments
Swimming pool filtration systems use a lot of energy, so look for options that are more eco-friendly. There are several filters on the market now that are designed to reduce water loss and use less electricity than traditional units.
Additionally, using natural treatments such as chlorine alternatives or saltwater chlorinators is another way to make your pool more eco-friendly. These treatments are gentler on the environment and don’t require regular chemical additions to maintain their efficiency.
Improving your home’s exterior with the environment in mind is a fantastic way to make a positive impact while improving the look and functionality of your home. By incorporating low-maintenance landscaping, using sustainable materials, upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors, installing solar panels, and harvesting rainwater, you will not only reduce your carbon footprint but save money on your energy and water bills. So take that step towards responsible home ownership by making these environmentally-conscious changes. Start small and take one step at a time; it’s about making the world a better place, one home at a time.
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