Home & Apartment
Whether you are a teen or older there are lots of little things you can do at home to help save energy and be green. Start by going around the house and unplugging appliances when they are not being used. Microwaves, toasters, coffee machines and things you use everyday. These are known as 'silent' energy suckers because even when they are not being used, being plugged in still sucks up energy which makes your bill higher and uses much more energy than you may think.
So, first unplug:
- microwave
-any chargers not being used ( phone, battery etc)
-toaster and toaster ovens
-coffee machines
-electric water heating machines ( often used for tea, soup, oatmeal etc.)
Next, change out your lightbulbs and replace them with energy saving CFL bulbs ( compact fluorescent light). You can find them ( energy star bulbs) at home depot and other hardware stores. You can usually tell which ones they are by some of them being a spiral shape!
Some other easy things to do at home are:
-Take shorter showers ( less water used is better)
-turn off the lights when you leave a room
- wash clothes in cold or warm water but DO NOT use HOT!!
- pay all your bills online ( use less paper, save more trees)
SHOP
When you are shopping for a new apartment or home think CLASSIC STYLE & FUN. A way to incorporate this on a budget is to search for gently used decor, textiles and furniture.
Above I have a photo of recent purchases that are all recycled glass, wood or purchased second hand. Don't think second hand is going to be dirty and gross. Many treasures are found in these stores and shops and have a history! TJMaxx, marshall's and many other shops offer eco-friendly products. Just be sure to read the materials and check for tell-tale eco certifications like hand-made, made in USA, USDA etc.
Also, try online sites like ETSY, West Elm, treehugger, etc.
