Community Engagement

Going Green at 70 - Small Changes, Big Benefits

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Hi there green beans,

I follow the David Suzuki Foundation and their newsletters are full of great information but the following was a brutal reminder:

Canada is the top per-capita energy consumer in the world! By becoming more energy-efficient, you pollute less and save money.

I get the per-capita reference but still I found it very startling. Canada is making improvements but we can all make a difference, even a small difference.

I’m going back to the basics and ask that we all consider making some or all of these small changes. Some can be costly but there are government programs that you could investigate.

The first few are pricey:

  • Swap out your dependency on your furnace for a heat pump. You need an alternate heat source but heat pumps do a great job in winter and summer.
  • Replace your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater. I haven’t done that one yet.
  • Install a programmable or smart thermostat.
  • Buy an induction stove which will lower indoor air pollution.
  • It’s hard to beat the ambience of a log fireplace but think about replacing it or your gas fireplace with an electric one. They are looking better than ever.
  • Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new appliances.
  • Repair improperly sealed doors and windows and upgrade your insulation. Winterizing your home will prevent heat from escaping.
  • Probably a good idea to get a home or workplace energy audit to identify where you can save the most and then do what you can.

Helping to save the environment helps you save money in the long run – WIN-WIN.

These ones are easier:

  • This is a simple one, unplug computers, TVs and other electronics when you’re not using them.
  • Wash clothes in cold water. Hang your clothes outside if you can or even inside on a rack. Also use wool dryer balls to avoid fabric softener and dryer sheets; I’ve been using mine for over 2 years.
  • Switch to LED bulbs, they will last forever.
  • I try to make enough food to last for a couple of days, just a quick re-heat and it keeps me from throwing out food, which is something we all should try and avoid.

Every small step is a step in the right direction and it’s never too late to start…..

Each morning we are born again. What we do today matters most. The Buddha