Many homeowners are currently investing in green technology, and this is not because it’s some kind of a fad or trend. Going green today is a moral decision about the future—or even a financial decision! Far from just making an abstract contribution to the planet, green homes have become family testing labs for saving money on power and eliminating waste.

In addition to the cost-efficiency it brings, green technology can also help the environment in significant ways. It starts with adoption. If homeowners can adopt sustainable technology, others may follow through, turning whole neighborhoods into greener, cleaner, and efficient communities.

You will have to do your part eventually, so it’s best to start by following these tips to live a greener lifestyle, starting at home…

1. Keep consumption to a minimum

Consumption, especially when it’s excessive, is one issue that a lot of people in the environmental movement have tackled. It’s a problem that has to be addressed with urgency before we run out of places to put landfills.

Obviously, addressing overconsumption needs to start at home. When you go out shopping for groceries or buy new furniture, you need to buy only what you need. Try to meet your own needs by repairing the things you have. In the kitchen, you can stock the fridge with food you only need for the week. With furniture, it’s best not to buy replacements if what you have in the living room is still in good condition. 

2. Use organic means for controlling pests

Pests are a bane of home living, so it’s only logical for you to get rid of them right away. Then again, you will need to do so without putting your health and that of your family at risk.

So, when searching for a pest control service, look for a company that uses non-toxic and biological means in handling mass infestations by rats, cockroaches, or any other harmful organisms. 

3. Schedule a building inspection

A professional home inspection is going to help you determine the eco-friendly repair and replacement tasks you need to do around the house. One thing’s for sure, you will also need to set a budget and consider whether these adjustments are going to increase your home value, or result in a cost that you just have to eat.

If you are buying a home for the first time and intend to know if it’s a good candidate for upgrades, it’s important that you get a help from a company that is capable of doing a pre-purchase home inspection.

You can find such a company just about anywhere. Their job title is usually advertised as “building inspector”, and a google search will turn up dozens in any city. If you happen to live in Australia, you can find a company that specializes in building inspection. Go with a local team that’s well-reviewed, and you’ll be fine 

4. Switch to energy saving bulbs

This is a no-brainer. Not only do energy-efficient bulbs help you control costs, but they also give off less heat and, hence and reduce power consumption. After all, LED bulbs and lamps are known to use 80% less energy compared to traditional, incandescent bulbs.

So, to make your home greener, opt to replace your lighting system with LEDs. It’s a small investment to make, but at least it offers a good start.

Making your home greener isn’t a long and daunting project. In fact, it wouldn’t cost a lot to begin turning your home into an eco-friendly place in the neighborhood today. One thing’s for sure, once you’ve taken the first step, others will eventually follow your example.