| By Jay Chua
It is a global phenomenon. We are striving to find more ways of reducing our effect
on the planet during day to day living. Homes are going green through construction
options like insulation and other building material choices. The concept can be
easily carried into our homes as well, influencing the choices of home decor and
design. Opting to go green has benefits for the homeowners' health and wallet as
well as for the entire planet.
1) Breathe Better Air
Manufacturing processes have historically given little thought to the air quality of
your home. Carpets produced off-gases and inexpensive furniture contained glue and
formaldehyde that caused unhealthy conditions. Indoor air with such poor quality
caused a particular condition to arise. SBS (or Sick Building Syndrome) was a result
of improper ventilation or noxious gases and fumes pervading the air.
Eliminate the risk of SBS by choosing interior home furnishings and finishes that
are natural. Carpets made with materials like sea grass, bamboo, sisal and alpaca
wool will not reduce your air quality. High quality wood furniture made with
sustainably harvested timber is an excellent choice. Opt for these decor choices
to ensure the healthiest indoor air quality possible.
2) Light Up Your Life
Simple choices like the type of light fixture or bulb that you use can make a big
difference. Change your incandescent bulbs to CFL (compact fluorescents) and your
lighting costs can be reduced by up to 75%. CFL's are not the optimum choice for
the environment as they do contain mercury and need to be disposed of carefully, but
they are an improvement over traditional light bulbs.
Watch for LED (light emitting diode) bulbs to become more popular. Manufactures are
working to develop an energy-efficient, standardized and reasonably priced LED bulb
for your home, which can be used for over two decades. This technology would save
you even more money and be greener than CFL.
Solar lights are widely available and effective for your lawn and garden. They
store up energy throughout the day and give off their light at night for safety and
outdoor enjoyment.
3) Use Trees For Climate Control All Year Round
Planting trees strategically around your home will help with energy usage and
climate control. In summer, trees shade your home and reduce dependency on the air
conditioner. In winter they will act as a wind block, deflecting the chilly air and
protecting your home. Trees also help with air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide
and transpiring water with their leaves. A well designed and attractive treed
landscape increases your property value of your home.
4) Party On The Patio
Leave the stove off and use your barbecue for meals to help to keep the indoor
temperatures down. You'll give the air conditioner a break and enjoy some time in
the fresh air. Set out comfortable patio furniture for lounging and outdoor dining.
Enjoy the backyard and help reduce your energy usage at the same time.
5) Crack A Window
Homes are designed to be airtight for better efficiency, but spring is the time to
open the windows and let the air in. This is not only cost efficient, but provides
a healthy atmosphere. With removable screens in place you can conveniently let the
breeze flow through.
6) Conserve Your Water
Design your yard using xeriscaping techniques to help conserve water. Native plants
are hardy and require less work on your part. Collecting precipitation with a rain
barrel and using that to water your gardens and pots is another eco friendly option.
Reducing your water usage can also save you quite a bit of money as the cost of
water tends to rise in the summer months.
7) Invest In Furniture That Lasts
Shop for and buy furniture that will stand the test of time, reducing the amount in
the landfill. Being green can also mean investing in products that truly last
instead of buying into the disposable culture around us. Look for furniture made
with sustainable materials. Timber like Western Red Cedar is sustainably grown and
is also naturally resistant to rot and pests. Furniture made with red cedar will
last for years without any chemical sealants or preservatives.
8) Balance And Harmony
A home designed with the planet in mind will naturally lean towards feelings of
balance and harmony. Decor with the colors and scenes of nature will create a
pleasing atmosphere. Wood furniture and finishes inside and outside your home help
with the harmony. Choose wood counters and floors for warmth. In the yard, a wooden swing or bench is
inviting and allows you to fully relax in your surroundings.
9) Choose Peace
By reducing the amount of petroleum-based products you buy, you are also helping to
reduce the amount of oil that is needed in their production. Going green makes our
nation less dependant on foreign oil supply and can help to promote peace.
10) Help Save The Planet
Despite the entertaining fantasy of science fiction, earth is all that we have. By
reducing your carbon footprint and making changes in your home, you are contributing
to a greener planet. We need to take care of our homes, globally and under our own
roof.
The benefits of choosing green home decor are many. Maintain better health for
your family, lower utility costs and be an eco friendly citizen by going green
around the house.
About The Author
Jay Chua is the publisher of PorchSwingSets.com and loves being outdoors and close
to nature. Jay and his wife Deisy live in Vancouver, Canada where they enjoy
gardening and travelling. When he¡¯s not designing backyard retreats, Jay can be
found on his outdoor porch swing savoring a coffee and a good read with his
wife by his side. To help you choose sustainable and durable outdoor furniture,
check out the porch swing reviews at PorchSwingSets.com and invest in lasting
green home decor.
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