How to Make Your Home More Environmentally Friendly

Today more than ever, people are concerning themselves with things like green living, eco-housing and other ways to help the environment. If you've got similar concerns, you might want to use one of these tips to help convert your home into a more environmentally friendly space. Even though some of these ideas can cost money to install, many of them are actually very cost-effective in the long term. That means you can help the environment and even save money in the process.

Install solar panels

Solar panels have been around for a while, but with their cost coming down, they are now seen as a more viable alternative to traditional power. Not only that, but they could actually help make you some additional income — you can generate more energy than you need and sell it back to power providers. Solar panels are a great way to become self-sufficient and stop relying on large energy companies for your own power.

Install wind turbines

These work similarly to solar panels, but are better for people who live in windier areas. Again, it's great to start being self-sufficient and stop relying on large multinational power companies for your energy. If you can produce it yourself, why not? You could also earn additional money by selling capacity back to the grid.

Improve natural ventilation

Traditional air conditioning can be expensive and cost a lot to power, and it can also add to your carbon footprint. All of these problems can be avoided by improving natural ventilation in your home. Natural ventilation is a great way to keep your property cool without breaking the bank — and it's better for the environment too.

Grow your own produce

If you've got land that you don't know what to do with, consider growing a few crops or additional produce. You don't even need a large amount of land — a small patch or vegetable garden could do the trick. You could also make some more money by selling some of your fresh produce back to the community.

Recycle your waste

You could consider something like a compost heap or other home-recycling methods to reuse much of what you use. While many councils provide recycling services, these require quite a lot of infrastructure to get them there, increasing your carbon footprint. If you can skip the middleman and start recycling yourself, you're onto a winner.

Remember, you don't have to just recycle,- you can reuse, too. Start reusing glass bottles and other things that can be used again and again — just make sure they've kept clean. Managing waste can be a great way to save money and help the environment.

Use natural insulation

Your walls can be where a lot of heat and energy are lost, but the right insulation can help. You might want to consider insulation that's made from natural products as an eco-friendly solution.

Get better windows

Windows can be expensive, but they also help pay for themselves by keeping heat in and reducing energy costs. Upgrade to double-glazed windows for maximum savings in energy and heating costs.