Getting Started on Sustainability at Home



When I started my focus on sustainability I started at home.  So much of how you implement sustainability in your meetings and events can translate to what you do at home.

Below are some key focuses I recommend for reducing your personal carbon footprint.

Key is to Get Started!

Waste:
  • Start recycling now!  Understand what your can recycle with plastics, etc..
  • Purchase food in bulk, not in containers
  • Make sure any food you do purchase your can recycle the container
  • Buy local!!
  • Compost:  Its great for your garden
  • Use your water bottle
  • Don't use single use food and drink containers
  • Buy second hand items and donate old items
  • Use reusable grocery bags
  • Reduce using paper.  IE magazines, receipts, etc
Water:
  • Don't use the toilet as a garbage
  • Limit your shower time
  • Make sure you have low flow toilet
  • Do not let water run when brushing your teeth and shaving
  • Wash your fruit and vegetables in a basin. Use a vegetable brush
  • Only run your dishwasher and washer when full
  • Scrape instead of wash dishes prior to going into dishwasher
  • Sweep your driveway instead of spraying down
  • Use a hose with low flow nozzle
  • Repair all leaks
  • Make sure your showerhead has low flow aerator

Energy:
  • Drive a Hybrid or electric car
  • Walk or rid a bike instead of driving
  • Make sure you switch off lights and appliances when not being used
  • Use LED lights
  • Manage your heating and cooling
  • Install solar on house
  • Shut doors and close curtains
  • Use energy efficient appliances

 

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