Ways To Be More Eco-Friendly in the Winter
When most people think of sustainable living, they often picture gardens in their backyard and walking to work instead of driving. But these measures aren’t always practical once the seasons change. Try implementing a few of the following practices into your life to be more eco-friendly in the winter season.
Plug Any Drafts
Blasting the heat all day long isn’t always the best use of energy. When you have drafty spaces in your home, you can end up having to crank the heat even higher and wasting more energy. Instead, plug or seal any leaks you notice along windows and siding that could be contributing to the problem.
Wearing a few extra layers around the house can also keep you from turning the heat up. Add a pair of slippers and a cozy sweater to your daily ensemble to reduce energy usage, all while staying warm and saving money.
Buy in-Season Produce
Buying produce items that aren’t in season means they’re being shipped from far away locations. Seasonal options require less energy spent transporting the goods to your local grocer, making your produce picks more eco-friendly. Some winter produce items include:
- Apples
- Pears
- Blackberries
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Spinach
Don’t Use Street Salt
Street salts often contain toxic chemicals that wreak havoc on our ecosystem. Instead of using street salts to deice your sidewalks and driveway, pick a safer alternative. Potato juice, coffee grounds, and beet juice are a few alternatives that will keep the ice at bay without hurting the environment.
Find Transportation Alternatives
The winter season can put a severe strain on your car’s emissions. When possible, opt for public transportation or carpool. If possible, skip going out altogether to reduce the emissions your vehicle puts out into the world.
Finding eco-friendly solutions is crucial in any season. Use these ways to be eco-friendly in the winter to take on the cold weather without hurting the planet.
