We all know that we’re to use energy efficient light bulbs, switch off all appliances when not in use and shower rather than bathe. Here’s a lesser known common-sense list to help stop the extinction nightmare and create a world in balance with nature for our children and grandchildren.
Energy savings
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- By putting insulation in the roof of your house, you can save about 40% of your energy costs (less heating in winter and cooling in summer).
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- Buying appliances that conserve water and electricity can save a considerable amount of money in the long-term. This applies to washing machines, dishwashers and fridges in particular (old fridges use a lot of electricity).
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- Put a time switch on your geyser or switch it off during the day. A geyser generates about 50% of your electricity costs. Save money by placing your heater upright (upright geysers heat more efficiently) and buy a geyser blanket to conserve the heat.
Water efficiency
South Africa is one of 25 countries in a water crisis.
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- Don’t wash dishes, brush your teeth or shave with the tap running.
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- Fill up your kettle or pot to the level you actually need when boiling water or cooking.
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- Run your dishwasher only when it’s completely full.
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- Wash your car on your lawn and use buckets and sponges. Use the hose only to rinse.
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- Use pool covers to reduce evaporation.
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- Check whether your taps are dripping and whether your toilet is leaking into the bowl by placing a piece of toilet paper against the back inside of the bowl, and see if it gets wet. A leaking toilet can waste thousands of litres over time.
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- Check the accuracy of your water meter. Turn off all taps and make sure that the toilet cistern is not filling up. Check if your meter’s running. If the meter is inaccurate, consult your local authority for advice.
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- You can lose up to 90% of water to evaporation when watering your garden in the middle of a hot, windy day. Water with a hand-held hose rather than a sprinkler (especially automatic sprinklers). Roof water can also be profitably stored in tanks for watering gardens.
General
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- Recycle all you can and use reusable containers instead of plastic wrap or bags.
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- Don’t use pesticides, herbicides, or man-made chemicals. Pesticides kill hundreds of birds and other animals per year. Pull out unwanted weeds yourself, plant a ground cover in their place, or use mulch to control weeds and limit evaporation.
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- A well-maintained car is more fuel-efficient, reliable and safe. It also produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Check your tyre pressure, service your car regularly and use the recommended grade of motor oil.
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- Use public transport, a carpool, walk or bike whenever possible and combine your errands.
Sources
www.etu.org.za
www.naturalstep.org
http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science
www.wikihow.com/Help-Save-the-Environment
www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/21-simple-steps-to-save-water-in-the-home