The consequences of climate change are upon us. You do not have to wait years to see the destruction of nature because of decades of uninhibited greenhouse gas emissions. It is not a far-off future generation who will bear the brunt of the disasters that will happen because of the warming planet. The current generations, from the Boomers to the members of Generation Z, are witnessing what scientists have been warning for so long: more frequent and more intense wildfires and hurricanes, mass extinctions, the appearance of new illnesses, and a warmer than usual winter.
It is not the end. Of course, things can still be improved. Everyone can make decisions that will benefit, rather than harm, the environment.
Winter is the time when most people stay at home. The freezing temperature outdoors leads people indoors to seek warmth and comfort.
Usually, with the cold weather, utility bills go up as people turn the settings of their heating system up. The more energy a house uses, the higher the household’s carbon footprint will be. Is there a way to be warm at home without killing the environment in the process?
Yes, there is. If you make these winter season swaps, you will be able to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Gas Versus Wood Fireplace
There is no question, a gas fireplace is a far better option compared to traditional wood fireplaces. Gas, as you know, creates a more consistent heat throughout the room. There is no wood that needs chopping and then supplied. It burns for as long as you need it to.
In addition, a fireplace that uses gas can be adjusted. Homeowners have the option to lower the heat or turn the temperature up. People can get the most comfortable condition by manipulating one device.
These perks contribute to making your home greener. Aside from the fact that there is no tree being chopped for firewood, gas is just more efficient as a source of heat. It is also safer to use, too, because it does not produce sparks that may fly off and start a house fire.
Natural Versus Synthetic Winter Coat
With the cold weather, coats come out of the closets to finally be worn again. Many people will find themselves needing to buy a new coat because the moths got to it when it was hibernating during the warmer months, or they simply want something new to wear.
The most eco-friendly thing you can do this winter is use what you already have. Your coat, whether it is wool or polyester, is going to keep you warm and will not add to your carbon footprint. Tossing it out would just create more waste.
If you have to buy, however, it is better to check the label and opt for a winter coat that uses natural fabrics. Polyester is plastic and, every time it is washed, it sheds microplastics that get into the ocean and eaten by marine life. Plastic also does not degrade and manufacturing involves fossil fuels.
Cotton is a popular material, but it comes with a huge environmental impact. It requires a massive amount of water and has to be dyed before it becomes ready for consumption. Organic cotton is grown using fewer resources and does not use pesticides (which harms the planet, too).
The most preferred materials are help, lined, and recycled wool.
Road Salt Versus Beet Juice, Coffee Grinds, and Even Cat Litter
Most places use road salt to melt snow and ice from walkways. However, it actually is not good for pets, plants, and the environment.
Salt will dry the paws of your pup or kitty. It also can damage concrete and metal which can lead to gardens being destroyed. When the snow and ice melt, it takes the salt with them and ends up in waterways. In short, it is bad and everyone should stop using it.
There are plenty of better alternatives out there. Most people like coffee, especially on a cold morning. The grinds can be reused to create traction on the ground. It is darker, too, which means that it absorbs heat and helps melt the ice and snow.
Beet juice is also great because it lowers the melting point of snow and ice. It makes the sun better at warming and then removing the snow and ice off your driveway.
While it cannot help melt snow and ice, kitty litter will prevent you from slipping.
The fight against climate change does not need major lifestyle adjustments. Everyone can help save the planet by being informed and making decisions that will not harm the Earth.
