2. Install a solar geyser or heat pump for long-term benefits.
3. Look at your window dressings like curtains and/or blinds to maximise internal insulation.
4. Install insulation on the roof where applicable.
5. Landscape home gardens according to the orientation of the building and existing window schedules.
Plant evergreen or deciduous according to winter and summer months to create shade in areas where there are big windows that receive full sun in summer and in the winter months the leaves fall to allow the sunshine in; this will give you natural heating and cooling of the building.
6. Fit carpeting where there are tiles or use a rug to create warmth in cold areas.
Recycle organic waste and use it in the garden instead of using fertilisers.
These can be stored in summer to keep the temperature down.
7. Recycle waste. Recycleable waste that goes into a land fill creates carbon emissions and is toxic.
When it rains this is washed into the water table and then treated heavily with chemicals to make it safe for human consumption.
8. Recycle organic waste and use it in the garden instead of using fertilisers.
9. Dispose of LED light bulbs responsibly; the mercury in these saves energy but is very toxic.
10. Harvest water. There is an upfront cost for this but the ROI on your municipal bill will be medium term and the water can be used in your garden.
11. Purify water on-site instead of drinking bottled water.
When you re-paint your home, make use of an environmentally friendly paint.
12. Use organic detergents for dishes and use the same water for indoor plants.
13. When you re-paint your home, make use of an environmentally friendly paint.
This is more expensive per litre but you do not need a primer and only need one coat, so it is cheaper on completion.
14. Install an energy efficiency alarm which will indicate to you when you have reached a limit; this will save you money and make you more conscious about consumption.
15. Be aware of unnecessary travel and maximise your travelling with people or do as much as you can in one trip; cycle or walk when you can.