Every year on April 22, people all over the world celebrate Earth Day to raise awareness about the environment and inspire action to safeguard the planet. This year, people from all across the world will gather to celebrate the 53rd anniversary of Earth Day. Having said that, as people's knowledge of the environment grows, a greater number of individuals are seeking ways to make their homes more eco-friendly. According to Realtor.com, over half of all home buyers are somewhat or very interested in purchasing a home with “green” features. Making simple adjustments to your home can help you save money on energy costs over time while also reducing your carbon footprint, and will make your home more desirable when it’s time to sell. Follow these tips to make your home eco-friendly, so you can help build a more sustainable future while also providing a healthier living environment for you and your family.

9 Ideas for Making Your Home More Sustainable and Eco-Friendly

1. Energy-Efficient Appliances

Your electricity expenditures and carbon footprint can be decreased by switching to energy-efficient appliances. These appliances are built to be more efficient without sacrificing performance. Energy-efficient appliances can assist in lowering greenhouse gas emissions (the leading cause of global warming and climate change) from your home. A wide range of energy-efficient equipment, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and more, are now available. When looking for energy-saving appliances, search for the Energy Star label, which denotes compliance with efficiency requirements set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

2. Smart Power Strips

Smart power strips are designed to automatically turn off power to electronic devices when they are not in use. This eliminates the "vampire" energy drain that occurs when devices are plugged in but not in use, which can account for up to 10% of your home's energy use. Some smart power strips also include timed outlets, which allow you to set a schedule for when certain devices turn on and off. This can be particularly useful for devices like chargers, which only need to be powered on for a short period of time.

3. LED Light Bulbs

LED light bulbs are an energy-efficient lighting option that can help you save money on your electricity bill. They use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs while producing the same amount of light. LED light bulbs also have a longer lifespan, which cuts down on waste since you won't have to replace them as frequently.

4. Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to automatically adjust the temperature in your home to lower your energy usage. It can help you maintain a comfortable temperature in your home by ensuring that the temperature is set to your preferences when you're home and then adjusted to save energy when you're away. For example, you can program the thermostat to lower the temperature during the day when you're at work and then raise it again when you return.

5. Solar Panels

Installing solar panels can help you generate your own electricity and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Before you install solar panels, it's important to determine your energy needs. This will help you determine how many panels you need. Solar panels need to be installed in a location that receives a lot of sunlight. The process can be complex, so it's important to find a reputable installer who has experience with solar installations. Buying a solar system requires a significant up-front expense. Yet, this can significantly lower your electricity costs. Additionally, you can get compensated if you send any excess energy to the grid. Make sure to consult your HOA about any solar panel restrictions.

6. Trees and Other Vegetation

Improved air quality is a result of trees and other vegetation absorbing carbon dioxide and other air pollutants. Place trees and plants strategically around your home to provide shade in the summer and windbreaks in the winter. This can help reduce your heating and cooling costs and make your home more energy-efficient. Also consider planting food-producing plants like fruit trees, herbs, and vegetables to reduce the amount of food you need to buy that has been transported long distances.

7. Compost

Composting is a great way to cut waste. It can enrich your soil with organic materials that are high in nutrients and help your plants thrive. You just need to find a dry and shaded location and you're good to go! Compost works best when it has a variety of organic materials, so be sure to add a mix of kitchen scraps, yard waste, and even shredded newspaper or cardboard. You can quickly and easily turn recyclables and garbage into beneficial compost that will help your garden flourish.

8. Reusable Bags and Containers

Recycle and reuse as much as possible to lessen the amount of waste you generate and help conserve our natural assets. Avoid using single-use items like plastic bags, disposable cups, and straws. Instead, opt for reusable items like cloth bags, reusable cups, and metal straws. Check to see that you are recycling as often as you can and that you are recycling properly. The last piece of advice is to buy in bulk so you may lessen the quantity of packaging waste you produce.

9. Choose Sustainable Materials

More than ever, it's crucial to think about how our individual and collective activities affect the globe. Choose materials that are sustainably sourced and made with low environmental impact. Sustainable building materials are free of toxic preservatives and emit hardly any toxins, while non-sustainable materials can emit harmful toxins such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and carcinogens. You have the option to use bamboo, reclaimed wood, cork, recycled glass, recycled steel, and low-VOC paints when renovating or decorating your home.

BONUS INFORMATION

Here's a new trend that we're seeing -- some cities and counties are starting to ban natural gas systems and appliances in new, low-rise residential buildings. Eugene will be the first city in Oregon with this policy. Yes, you read that right! The new ordinance will come into effect this year and will require all new residential buildings of 3 stories or less to be powered entirely by electricity. The choice was made to support renewable energy sources and lower greenhouse gas emissions. This action is a big step in the direction of a more sustainable future. The prohibition will boost energy efficiency and is a part of Eugene's bigger strategy to become carbon neutral by 2050. Eugene will join other US cities like Berkeley, California and Brookline, Massachusetts in taking similar actions to support renewable energy and cut back on carbon emissions.

SPOTLIGHT

We’d like to introduce Marilyn Doyle, a Master Recycling Expert in the Murrayhill neighborhood. You may have met her during our recent recycling and junk removal event. She is an expert in the area and can answer your questions about recycling, recyclables, and where to take them.

Here are upcoming recycling events that you should be aware of:

1. James Recycling Pop-up Event

April 19th @ 11am-1pm

Beanstalk Children’s Resale at 3527 NE 15th Ave, Portland, OR 97212

2. James Recycling Event

April 22nd @ 10am-12:30pm

Jesuit High School at 9000 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, OR 97225

3. Mountainside High School Earth Day Recycling Event

April 22nd @ 9am-12pm

Al's Garden & Home at 16920 SW Roy Rogers Rd, Sherwood, OR 97140

4. Spring Hazardous Materials Collection Events

April 29th @ 9am-2pm

Epson at 3950 NE Aloclek Dr, Hillsboro, OR 97124

May 6th @ 9am-2pm

Mt. Hood Community College at 26000 SE Stark St, Gresham, OR 97030, Parking Lots N & P

May 20th @ 9am-2pm

Mannahouse Church at 9200 NE Fremont St, Portland, OR 97220

Send me a message if you have any questions for Marilyn, and I will put you in touch with her. Need more information about our recent blog post? Don't hesitate to contact us. The Carey Hughes Homes team is ready to answer any questions you may have. Happy Earth Month!