Use the weekends to get sustainable at home

01 Sep Use the weekends to get sustainable at home

Posted at 15:20h in Blogs by

Educating your family and making small changes around your home can significantly impact the environment over time. Here’s a list of simple, practical suggestions to help you make your home more eco-friendly. Many of these ideas are also great for involving kids and educating them about sustainability.

    Energy Conservation

  1. Switch to LED Bulbs: Replace your traditional bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs.

    – Teach your kids about energy consumption by comparing wattages of different bulb types.

  1. Unplug Devices: Unplug chargers and appliances when not in use.

– Make it a game for children to identify and unplug idle devices.

  1. Install a Programmable Thermostat: Control heating and cooling more efficiently.

    –  Discuss how energy is generated and why it’s essential to save it.

    Water Conservation

  1. Fix Leaky Taps: A small drip can waste a lot of water over time.

    –  Let children be the “leak detectives” for the day.

  1. Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Use low-flow faucets and showerheads to save water.

    –  Calculate the amount of water saved over a week and discuss its importance.

  1. Water Plants Early or Late: Water your garden early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce evaporation.

    – Let kids take turns watering plants at the optimal times.

    Waste Management

  1. Start Composting: Use kitchen waste to make compost.

    –  Allow kids to separate compostable items from the rubbish.

  1. Recycle Properly: Sort plastics, paper, and metal for recycling.

    –  Teach family members about the recycling symbols and what they mean.

  1. Buy in Bulk: Reduce packaging waste by buying in bulk.

    –  Let kids help in dividing bulk items into reusable containers at home.

    Eco-Friendly Products

  1. DIY Cleaning Supplies: Make your own eco-friendly cleaning products.

    –  Kids can help mix ingredients under supervision.

  1. Use Cloth Over Paper: Use cloth napkins and towels instead of paper ones.

    –  Calculate the amount of paper saved and relate it to the number of trees.

  1. Install Solar Lights: Use solar-powered lights for your garden or pathway.

    –  Discuss how solar energy works and its benefits.

    Sustainable Food Choices

  1. Local Produce: Buy local and seasonal produce to reduce carbon footprints.

    –  Let kids pick fruits and vegetables at a local food shop.

  1. Meal Planning: Plan meals to reduce food waste.

    –  Discuss the impact of food waste on the environment.

  1. Grow Your Own Herbs: Small herb gardens are easy to maintain.

    –  Kids can help with planting and watering.

    Transportation

  1. Bike or Walk: Use the car less for short trips.

    –  Family biking or walking trips can be both fun and educational.

  1. Car share: Share rides to reduce emissions.

    –  Discuss the concept of carbon footprints.

    Education & Advocacy

  1. Watch Documentaries: Spend a family movie night watching a documentary about oceans, space, and environments.

  1. Local Clean-Up: Participate in or organise a community clean-up.

    –  Children can help pick up recyclable materials.

  1. Share Information: Use social media to share sustainability tips.

    –  Older kids can help create and share posts.

By incorporating these changes, you can reduce your carbon footprint. Even small actions can make a big difference!