Ten Tips For A Greener Home

 

 -There are many things we can do in our homes to reduce pollution and save wildlife
1.  * If you are thinking of laying a wooden floor, buy reclaimed floorboards or wood from a sustainable source. Make sure that the wood is not from rainforests or other threatened forests.
2. * Save energy. Insulate your home - fit double glazing and invest in energy efficient light bulbs. Most of the energy we use contributes to climate change.Climate change is caused by the release of 'greenhouse gases' such as carbon dioxide which is given off when fossil fuels such as oil and gas are burnt in power stations. Water shortages are endangering some of the Earth's most valuable wild places and a rise in sea level could lead to increased flooding in some areas.
 3. * Chucking out old furniture? Don't throw it in the trash, give it to a charity.
4. * If you are painting or want to apply a finish or stain, try to find a natural product. Many products contain toxic chemicals and can pollute the environment.
5. * Recycle all glass, cans, paper and plastics. Unnecessary packaging puts unnecessary pressure on the world's natural resources. Mining and forestry can destroy habitats that have taken centuries to develop. On top of this most of this packaging is thrown away and buried in holes in the countryside called landfill sites. These sites can pollute water supplies. Reducing waste reduces energy consumption too!
6. * Save water. Don't leave taps running unnecessarily. Invest in a rain water butt to collect rainfall to water your garden. Water is taken from rivers and underground water supplies all over the country. As more and more water is taken from our wild places, many of our most important wildlife areas, wetlands and rivers become threatened.
7. * Buy a green fridge! As well as damaging the ozone layer, the CFCs found in most existing fridges and freezers are also powerful greenhouse gases. The good news is that 100% ozone-friendly fridges are now available in U.S. shops and these use a propane and butane mixture. When replacing old equipment, make sure the CFCs are safely removed. Find out whether your council, fridge retailer or manufacturer operate a safe, ozone friendly fridge disposal service.
8. * Buy products which are built to last. Too many of the goods we buy break easily and can be expensive to fix. Buy products with long guarantees and ask if the shop will take the product back to be recycled at the end of its lifespan. This helps reduce waste and saves valuable resources.
9. * Try to avoid buying peat compost, as the bogs where it comes from are unique wildlife havens and are disappearing fast. Your own compost will do a similar job.
10. * Steer clear of chemically-based fertilizers and pesticides. Buy and grow organic food wherever possible. Chemicals used to kill pests and feed plants can damage your health.