Insulation – saves tonnes of energy and money and keeps your home comfortable all year round. There are two types of insulation bulk insulation (which prevents heat from escaping) and reflective insulation (which deflects radiant heat).
Solar Hot Water – Install solar panels on your roof and absorb the sun’s energy to heat your water. If your home doesn’t face the right way for solar you can install a heat pump, which absorbs heat from the air and ground.
Renewable Energy – use green power companies which source some or all of your energy from renewable sources like solar, wind, water (hydro) and even organic waste. You can also install photovoltaic panels on your roof to create your own power.
Carbon Offsets – some organisations plant trees or do other energy saving projects to offset your greenhouse gas emissions. The Department of Climate Change has a list of accredited providers and approved abatement projects. Support these groups.
Heating and cooling – Ideally use a fan before air con, but if the fan just ain’t cutting it, set your air con to 24 degrees in summer. In winter consider if you need to heat your home. Jumpers are great heaters too! If you must heat, gas heaters and efficient reverse cycle heat pumps are cheaper and more ecologically sound than electric heaters. When using heating and cooling devices make sure you shut doors to the rooms you’re not using.
Lighting – switch to energy efficient lighting. Each compact fluorescent light globe consumes up to 80% less energy than a standard (incandescent) light globe. Always use natural lighting where possible.
Appliances – appliances account for over 25% of your home’s energy use and 45% of your greenhouse gas emissions. Buy energy efficient appliances. Energy ratings are clearly labelled on all appliances. The highest is 10 stars – each star can save you between 15-30% on running
costs. Use your appliances efficiently. While the dryer may be convenient, it’s costing you and the earth, so only use it when necessary. Always turn your appliances off at the wall.
Grey water – install greywater system, so you can use waste water for things like watering your garden, flushing your toilet and doing the laundry. Some systems may also treat the water for impurities. If you don’t have grey water system installed you can always use a bucket in the shower, but make sure the soaps you are using won’t affect your garden’s growth.
Rainwater tanks – can be used indoor and on the garden. The appropriate plumbing will be necessary. You may need a water filter because of pollution. The Eco Experts can advise you on what action is necessary.
Buy water efficient appliances – for the shower, toilet and washing machine. They’ll save you in the long term.
Create a water smart garden – plants that are designed to thrive in
Australian conditions will save on water. Also consider mulching.
Reduce and recycle waste – understand what can be recycled at home and in the office. Build a worm farm or compost heap for organic waste. Don’t use plastic bags. Re-use container where possible. Buy second hand.
Food – buy local. It generally tastes fresher and better anyway.
Transport – use public transport, carpool, bike, run, skip, skateboard wherever you can. If you must drive use a fuel efficient car and buy green at the petrol pump. And keep your car serviced regularly to ensure it’s running efficiently.
Invest in renewable energy sources – When you invest in renewable power generation, you are helping build a sustainable future. Some companies offer this service. This can cost you approximately $21 per tonne of CO2 offset. You can also talk to your financial advisor about investing in renewable energy.
