Tag: green

by James Adam

6 Best Ways for You Go Green


Homes

There are a number of people, communities and businesses that are interested in conserving and protecting the natural resources. The problem is that most are not aware of what they need to do in order to become more environment friendly. Put simply, being environmentally friendly simply means adopting a lifestyle that’s better for the environment. It is about taking small steps to make the planet a better place for generations to come. But, how and where to get started? Learning to be a tad more environmentally friendly can actually turn out to be easier than you believe. It doesn’t mean that you change everything; you can start small for making the changes a normal and sustainable part of your life.

Here are some of the best ways for you to go green:

Increase your awareness of resources

The first thing you have to do for going green is becoming more aware of the resources that you utilize in your daily life. You need to start paying attention to how you choose to travel, heat, use water and also other products that are made by manufacturing practices. It is only through awareness that you will be able to make choices that are environmentally friendly.

Start practicing conservation

When you have become aware of the natural resources you use in your life, it is time for you to start practicing conservation. This can be something as simple as walking or biking to work instead of taking the car or turning off the lights when you leave the room. There can also be some complex actions like going over your options when it comes to constructing your home.

Planting trees is a good idea

Trees are essential for our survival. We need trees for giving us oxygen and fruits and cleaning the air. They also prevent soil erosion and give shelter to wildlife. When you have a shady landscape around your home, it can go a long way in reducing your consumption of energy and also help in keeping your home cool during the summers. Therefore, it is definitely a good idea to plant small trees around your house and also work with local environmental groups for planting more trees in your area.

Conserving water should be a priority

It is crucial to conserve water because a lot of energy is needed for pumping water from lakes and rivers into homes. Hence, through conservation, we reduce the amount of energy required for filtering it. On a large scale, countries and governments use smart technology like active leak detection and smart water meters to manage water loss and use on an extremely large scale, and we can do something similar in our own homes. Some of the ways you can save water is by fixing leaking pipes, taking short showers, recycling water at home, collect rainwater for watering your lawn, using water saving appliances and keeping the running tap close when brushing your teeth.

Use products and services carefully

You need to be careful when using products and services and ensure they are environment-friendly. Figure out what products are made of fossil fuels or use in processes and look for replacements. Likewise, be cautious when you are hiring services. For instance, when you are thinking about hiring a moving service, look for services such that are focused on protecting the environment and don’t implement practices that can inflict damage.

Alter your travel habits

Flying and driving are two areas where you can make a real impact on the environment. Travel less, opt for more fuel efficient travel options and use direct routes for saving on fuel. If you don’t have to go far, opt to walking or cycling instead of using your car.

These practices can help you in protecting the environment in the long run.


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by Incredible Planet Staff

Make your Green Home Dream come true


Homes

Big Ways To Go Green At Home And Live A More Sustainable Life

As we face a growing concern over global warming and the need to limit our energy usage, many families are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. From the obvious to the innovative, there are literally hundreds of ways to go green and make your home more sustainable over the long term. If you’re having trouble knowing where to start, here are a few recommendations that you might not have considered.

Ditch the Post Office

Let’s face it. The holidays are the only times we really need to depend on old snail mail. In today’s digital age, nearly all of your bills can be received paperless. While most utility and financial organizations will let you know of the option, ask the billing department in cases where you’re unsure. Some businesses will even offer you a discount for switching to paper-free billing.

Additionally, get your name taken off as many mailing lists as possible. First, the junk mail is just a waste of paper and, if you’re honest, you don’t even look through most of it. Secondly, there’s probably not anything you receive that you can’t find online. Look at the most recent shopping flyer you received. It probably has the company’s website listed someplace. Just save the site address in your bookmarks and put an end to the waste of paper.

Watch Out for VOC in Your Purchases

VOC stands for volatile organic compounds and these are the substances that give off that chemical odor from new carpets, furniture, paint, and building materials. The odor is caused by the evaporation of the chemicals used in the manufacturing process. While some people like the smell and refer to it as a “new” smell, it can actually be damaging to the eyes, respiratory system, and central nervous system. VOC products contribute to indoor air pollution, making it 5-10% higher than outdoor air pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency has tested products containing VOC chemicals and found that they can make air pollution content as much as 100 times greater than outdoor air pollution. When shopping for these types of products, watch for labels that guarantee the product is VOC free. They may be a little more expensive, but they won’t put your health at risk.

It’s Time to Replace Your Incandescent Light Bulbs

In most households, lighting comprises 12% of the home’s energy consumption, so looking for ways to reduce this expense is an important factor in going green. Incandescent light bulbs should be replaced with LED and CFL bulbs, which can save as much as 75% on your energy usage. In addition to using less energy, compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) and light emitting diode (LED) bulbs last longer. They will typically outlast incandescent bulbs by 10 to 25 years.

Use Organic Cotton Bedding and Linen

Therapists often speak about quality sleep which is essential for healthy living. Standard linen used in your bedding hampers this by triggering allergic reactions such as itchy eyes, headaches and fatigue. Swapping your conventional sheets for organic linen is one of the quickest ways to reduce your exposure to toxins. Choosing organic bedding is a right way to incorporate a greater environmental awareness into your everyday life.

Invest in a Composting Bin

A large portion of the trash produced in homes comes from food scraps and leftovers. The simplest way to get rid of these unwanted scraps is to throw them in the trash. However, that means they’ll take up valuable landfill space, where they will serve no purpose. Instead, invest in a composting bin, so you can turn those food scraps into fertilizer. A typical composting bin runs between $100 and $600. It may be worthwhile to invest in a higher end model with a removable bottom hatch for removing the fertilizer and a secure top lid to prevent pests from creating a problem.

Collect Rainwater

Water is our most valuable resource and we’re only now beginning to realize that our supply of freshwater is limited and diminishing. To save on water consumption, collect the rainwater that falls on your roof and in your yard. Otherwise, much of that water will end up flowing into the street, collect contaminants, travel through the sewer system and end up released into the area’s natural bodies of water. Set up barrels to collect the rainwater that falls on your roof. This may involve hiring someone to clip and alter your gutters, so they can be redirected to the barrels. The savings on water will pay for that expense. Rainwater can be used for gardening and watering houseplants.

Reuse Containers and Supplies

The internet is filled with nifty ideas for reusing everything from old containers to unused crafting scraps. In addition to reducing waste, this can help you explore your creativity, make better use of what you have, and create some truly unique homemade gifts for your loved ones. How challenging you get us up to you, but many projects don’t require more than some glue, thread, and basic tools. The best way to be sustainable is to reduce your waste as much as possible and crafting is a great way to do that.

Upgrade Your Appliances

This includes everything from your refrigerator to your air conditioning system. As for household appliances, look for the Energy Star rating and compare energy usage for different brands of the same items. Additionally, have a professional evaluate your heating and air conditioning units to make sure they’re as efficient as possible. If it’s an older home, updating the system may provide significant savings on your monthly energy usage.

Smart Home Tech is an Invaluable Resource

Smart home technology is helping people reduce their energy usage in big ways. Many systems allow homeowners to control door locks, heating and A/C, and lights remotely from their mobile devices. This means costly energy usage can be eliminated, when no one is at home. Similarly, the devices can be programmed to turn back home, just before the first occupant is expected to return. By getting a better control on your utilities, you can manage your energy usage more efficiently, which also helps to reduce spending on your monthly budget.

These are but a few ways that you can live greener at home. While reducing energy consumption plays a big part in being more sustainable, it’s not the only way to do your part to protect the environment. If you’re looking for more things you can do, search the internet or consult your local utility companies. There are options for financing your home improvement where you can take help. They may have inexpensive changes you can make to reduce your household’s carbon footprint.

by Incredible Planet Staff

8 Facts About Eco-Friendly Mattresses


Lifestyle

Environmental pollution is one of the biggest threats to modern day life. The only solution to many such concerns regarding contamination of environment is conservation of natural resources such as preserving our forests and other valuable natural resources for the future generations. Under this critical phase, the use of organic or eco friendly materials is a highly needed. One of such materials which are produced especially to reduce contamination of environment and promotion of better human health and fitness are eco friendly mattresses or organic mattresses.

There are a lot of beneficial aspects of eco friendly mattresses such as being absolutely environmental friendly and leaving behind no contamination. In the production of organic mattresses, exclusively all natural products and natural methods are used and hence environment remains safe from contamination.

If you are making a choice of organic mattress and you are seriously concerned about environmental concerns such as emission of carbon dioxide and over use of pesticides etc, there are generally 10 points to consider which include online reviews, consultation with doctor, orthopedic friendly features of the mattresses, test drive of the mattress you are interested in purchasing, firmness of the mattress (firm mattresses are not always beneficial for back), guarantees, trial period, available options and variations, customizability, specialized stores where eco friendly mattresses are there with varieties etc. There are a lot of benefits of using eco friendly or organic mattresses, some of the key benefits of using eco friendly mattresses are mentioned below:

Environmental friendly mattresses

The components used in most of the organic mattresses are generally renewable and are exclusively free of chemical inclusions and harmful products such as chemical adhesives and retardants. We can also say that the materials used in making such mattresses are absolutely biodegradable and sustainable. The impact on environment is almost zero when biodegradable and sustainable materials are used.

Peace of mind

For people who are concerned about environment, it is always a good feeling to use products which are not causing any harm or contamination in the atmosphere. It is a simple and awesome way to go green. Another best feature about such mattresses is that they are easily broken down naturally and do not affect the surrounding environment.

Regulation of body temperature

Organic or eco friendly mattresses have tremendous ability to regulate the body temperature. The special cooling system of organic mattress wicks away the moisture of the body. This ensures better heart rate due to low moisture content next to skin. You can get cozy night rest during any season as the optimal skin temperature is created.

Chemical free formulas

The organic products are grown naturally, no chemicals like pesticides are used in the manufacturing of organic products. Since most of the people are prone to allergies and respiratory concerns due to the use of traditional mattresses, this is a safer and better option for such people. The natural fibers are used in organic mattresses which are non toxic and ideal for human health.

No off gassing

As the mattresses are free of chemicals, there is no chance of off gassing or contamination in the environment. This is much needed as most of the gases which are released while spraying pesticides contribute to green house effect and resulting in global warming.

Comfort level of eco friendly mattresses

Another important aspect of using eco friendly or organic mattresses is that they are comfortable as compared to traditionally used mattresses. Since the organic mattress has ability to mold to the natural contours of the body they are more comfortable and healthy as compared to memory foams. If you are looking for more comfort while sleeping and better resting material the eco friendly mattresses are best for you. since the use of these mattress ensure better molding to body contours, motion transfers are also isolated by them and consequently you will need to turn less while sleeping. This action allows better sleep and a better day ahead. Organic mattresses are cozier than traditional mattresses and help in temperature regulation as you are sleeping which keeps you cool and comfortable as you are taking rest. The eco friendly mattresses are especially designed to be more supportive to your back and ensure better alignment of your spine. Plenty of air spaces are present in between the cells of organic mattress and as a result of it, pressure is distributed evenly across the bed, this action promotes better circulation of blood during sleeping hours.

Customizable

The eco friendly mattresses are customizable in unique way. You can customize such mattresses according to your needs such as level of firmness can be adjusted and this makes the mattress more versatile. The traditional mattresses are generally not customizable and hence they lack versatility as well.

Hypoallergenic and anti-microbial

mattress 2489612 640
mattress 2489612 640

These mattresses are hypoallergenic and hence for the people with hypersensitivity the use of this mattress ensures less allergic reactions and better health. The traditional mattresses are often not suitable for the people with allergic reactions, respiratory concerns and irritation etc.

Eco friendly mattresses are anti microbial as well, they do not allow dust mites (major cause of irritation and allergy) to grow and survive. The biggest advantage is that, you don’t need to put a plastic cover on the mattress to keep away the dust mites. The use of plastic covers on the mattress is also not recommended since you can have more sweat production and the sleeping pattern is greatly disturbed. For the people suffering from various skin allergies, respiratory concerns such as asthma, the use of eco friendly mattress is a best and safest option.

Bottom Line

As we have discussed the advantages of eco friendly mattress, it is very much clear that they are environmental friendly and do not result in contamination of environment, more comfortable as compared to traditional mattress, hypoallergenic and customizable. They can help to reduce body temperature and promote better sleep. All these features make eco friendly mattress better and superior over other traditional mattresses.

by Incredible Planet Staff

How to Make Your Student Life More Ethical and Green


Lifestyle

More and more people are becoming aware of the importance of protecting the environment. With global warming, decreasing biodiversity, deforestation, water scarcity and other global issues, adopting an eco-friendlier, more sustainable lifestyle can be a significant step towards a better and greener future.

Therefore, you should consider making your student life more ethical and green as a way to contribute to the conservation of the environment. Furthermore, by turning to eco-friendly living, you may inspire your peers to follow your example.

Adopt friendlier habits

There are numerous eco-friendly habits that you can adopt to save the environment. For example, you should go to college by foot or bike instead of taking a bus or cab. You should also reduce your water consumption by turning off taps while soaping your hands or body or brushing your teeth.

Turning off the lights and installing LED bulbs can reduce your energy consumption and cut your bills. These are simple habits that you can easily adopt and that can truly help you make a contribution to the environment preservation.

Reduce your paper use

Every student is buried in paper – notes, assignments, copies, books, reminders, planners, etc. You probably like to print out your notes, highlight important parts with colourful markers and copy your friends’ notes. However, switching to the digital format can significantly reduce your paper use and help the environment.

You should consider reading books via e-readers or your laptop and taking your laptop to lectures to write down your notes. Not only will you save paper, but you’ll also be able to access your notes from any device, at any place and at any time. You can go digital even when you exchange notes with your peers.

For example, Australian students can exchange their uni papers online by accessing the Thinkswap platform. You can find a similar platform for your university and have different notes, student guides and assignments at your disposal. You can also post your notes to help out other students in need. This way, you’ll speed up your studying process, reduce your paper use and save both money and the environment.

Control waste

There are so many ways to reduce waste without breaking a sweat. Instead of going from plastic bottles and paper cups, you should buy reusable ones and simply wash them after. You should also avoid using wet wipes, paper towels, plastic razors and plastic grocery bags. When shopping for different products, go with bigger bottles and containers instead of tiny ones. In addition, you should avoid wasting food, too. If possible, freezer your leftovers or share your food with your friends.

Practice what you preach

Preaching about saving the environment while doing the opposite is quite unethical. Instead, try to be a great example to your friends by practicing what you preach in real life. Make sure to stick to your own advice before giving it to someone else. Only when you do that will you have the right to advise others. Afterwards, you can expand ecological awareness and help your friends adopt eco-friendlier lifestyles.

No matter how small and insignificant these changes may seem, they can actually help you lead a healthier and greener life that benefits the environment, too.