Earth Day, held annually on April 22, aims to create support for increased environmental protection.
There are several ways to support the cause, many of which can be incorporated into everyday routines to make long-lasting changes.
For those hoping to support the cause, RE/MAX of Southern Africa shares a few ideas for homeowners who want to adopt greener habits:
• Start a compost heap
Creating a compost heap at home will reduce CO² emissions at landfill sites. Start a compost heap in your garden to reduce your household food waste. When correctly implemented, they provide nutrition for your soil, which can be used to grow vegetable and herb gardens. Doing this will reduce the packaging waste created when you buy groceries at a store. You can also support the Earth Day organisation by signing its Global Plastics Treaty petition that aims to implement a global policy on plastic pollution.
• Clean out your wardrobe
One of the Earth Day organisation’s aims this year is to raise awareness around sustainable fashion. Rather than throwing unwanted clothing in the bin, see what can be reused and repurposed into something else – perhaps a decorative scatter cushion or throw for your home. Instead of buying new clothing, visit a thrift shop or find sustainable clothing stores.
• Plant a tree
The Earth Day organisation states: “Planting billions of trees across the world is one of the biggest and cheapest ways of taking CO² out of the atmosphere to tackle the climate crisis.”
To do your bit, plant a tree in your backyard. Those without garden space could add a few pot plants to their homes – every bit counts.
• Invest in the environment by investing in your home
Those with the budget for it could consider adding green upgrades to their homes, like solar panels, boreholes, insulation, energy-saving light bulbs, dual flush cisterns, and water flow restrictors on taps.
“Going green is not only the right thing to do, but it can also help you save on monthly utility bills and could result in a higher resale value for your home. A local expert can help you decide what features buyers are looking for in your area and which green upgrades can help add value,” concluded Adrian Goslett, the regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.
