Some of today’s environmental buzzwords are “green” and “global warming” and “healthy environment,” but what exactly do these buzzwords mean to our homes, our health and our pocketbooks? I had the opportunity to dig into the effects of global warming during my research for our Home Efficiency Seminar.
There are volumes of information available online and in print. Go Green, Live Rich by David Bach with Hillary Rosner offers “50 Simple Ways to Save the Earth and Get Rich Trying,” and Sophia Uliano tells us “8 Simple Steps to an Eco-Friendly Life” in her book, Gorgeously Green.
Consider these points:
- Currently, our homes account for more than 20{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} of our national energy demand and produce more than 20{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} of our national carbon dioxide emissions.
- Heating a home accounts for approximately 15-25{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} of its energy use.
- High efficiency water heaters use up to 50{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} less energy than standard models.
- The average home is responsible for more pollution than the average car.
- Plumbing leaks in a home account for approximately 14{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} of its water usage.
The table below shows that by making some very small changes, we can make a big difference in the environment and save money at the same time.
“Green” living can be and should be addressed by everyone – from individuals to major corporations.
What energy-saving tips can you offer?
