The State We''re In

By Author: Jessia Szychowski
Total Articles: 4
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These days the future of the planet and the increasing danger to the environment from human activity is at the fore of the collective mind. As more and more people are keen to limit the damage to the environment caused by their own lifestyles, homeowners are looking for ways of reducing the carbon footprint left by their home. Happily, they are finding that becoming more eco-friendly is not as difficult and as expensive as you might think.

Small reforms in your way of life, such as going by foot for a visit to do some shopping rather than driving in your car, will make a difference. Though it may not seem like much, lifestyle changes such as these will do wonders in protecting the planet at the same time as helping you make good savings.

There are many ways that you can help make a positive impact on the environment, starting by making changes in your own home. You will reap the benefits in the long term, not only from the peace of mind that you have made a substantial difference but also from the fact that your home will be more valuable ? research shows that most people will pay more for eco-friendly homes.

Changing ...
... your heating system is one of the surest means of cutting down the energy you are using and wasting at home. Making your home sufficiently insulated will be good for the environment obviously, and could additionally cut your annual energy bills by a significant amount.

Shopping around and visiting different energy providers so that you can find better heating options will be worth it, so then you''ll be able to find a system that is as efficient as possible. If you have an inefficient, old boiler then it will prove too expensive to maintain.

Beyond this you can do so many more things in your daily lifestyle. For example you can save water and electricity if you use a pan lid for boiling veg and pasta, whilst buying organic food which has been sourced locally will help you avoid nasty pesticides and additives.

Air fresheners have a detrimental effect given the damaging chemicals they contain; instead it''s best to simply throw open a window and let some fresh air indoors. Similarly you should try washing clothes at a lower temperature, not only to help the environment but also to save you money which will accumulate over time.

Making small changes in the products you use and the lifestyle you lead will, combined, add up to substantial savings. Using environmentally friendly products for cleaning or cosmetic use such as shampoo, washing up liquid and household cleaners will have beneficial effects for the environment: these products are made without synthetic fragrances and they are produced in packaging made from recycled material. Even seemingly insignificant acts like turning off the lights when they''re not being used will reap significant rewards in terms of savings. Jessia Szychowski is the author of this article about heating systems. Visit British Gas to find out the latest gas and electric prices for UK residential and business customers.