Living an eco-friendly lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest requires a certain set of practices. There are a number of ways to make your home more environmentally friendly, from energy efficient appliances, to sustainable building practices, to creating a green space outdoors. Here are some tips on making your home more eco-friendly in the Northwest.
From building materials to energy efficiency, construction in the Northwest is often focused on environmental responsibility. Sustainable materials such as strawbale or reclaimed lumber and efficient water uses like graywater systems can help save energy and water. Additionally, installing energy efficient appliances and using smart lighting systems can help save energy.
Creating an outdoor oasis is another way to increase the sustainability of your home. Planting native species and avoiding garden and lawn pesticides is a great way to reduce your impact and add beauty to your yard. You can also add a solar panel array to further reduce your energy usage.
Energy Efficient Appliances
By choosing energy efficient appliances, you can reduce your home’s footprint. Look for the ENERGY STAR certified label when you buy a new appliance—it indicates an item that meets energy and performance requirements.
Also, consider replacing your single-ply windows and doors with double-paned, energy efficient versions. You can also obtain a home energy audit to identify other areas where you can save on energy costs.
Sustainable Gardening Practices
Organic gardening is a great way to make your garden and lawn more eco-friendly in the Northwest. For instance, using mulch reduces water usage and soil compaction, while composting can provide nutrients for your soil, reducing the need for fertilizers.
Make sure to choose native plants, as they require less water and are generally well-adapted to the area. Additionally, eschew chemical pesticides and herbicides, as they can poison birds, animals, and people alike.
If you’d like more information on sustainable gardening in the Northwest, you can contact your local Extension office. For a list of native plants in your area, visit the USDA’s Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
Making Your Home Eco-Friendly
- Choose energy efficient appliances and windows that have the ENERGY STAR label
- Practice sustainable building practices
- Create a green space outdoors with native plants and composting
- Install solar panels as a source of renewable energy
Conclusion
By following the tips detailed above, you can easily make your home more eco-friendly in the Pacific Northwest. Incorporating energy efficient measures, sustainable building practices, and eco-gardening techniques can help make your home a better, greener place to live.