Save energy with Earth Hour
JOBURG - As South Africa and the world prepares to commemorate Earth Hour next month, The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has issued tips for effecting climate change.
The WWF is encouraging residents to take measures to conserve energy such as opting to have a home energy monitor as a way to keep track of electricity usage around the house.
Another energy-saving tip given was to turn off appliances at the wall, this includes cellphone chargers, shavers and electric toothbrushes.
WWF also issued tips for water conservation, encouraging residents to opt for a shower rather than a bath, as this saves both time and water. Additionally, using tap rather than bottled water, was listed as another way to save water.
Other areas tackled included tips on how to manage waste and choosing to purchase environmentally-friendly products.
Earth Hour is set to take place on 19 March this year and will see the lights on the iconic Nelson Mandela bridge turned off to mark the occasion.
Tips on the kinds of products to consume:
- Buy seasonal and local instead of imported goods or grow your own.
- Become a Sassi (South African Sustainable Seafood Initiative) consumer by buying green-listed fish: www.wwf.org.za/sassi
- Think differently about meat and dairy. Try going meat-free for one day a week.
- Cut down your food waste.
- Say cheers to green wine by supporting WWF Conservation Champion wine estates.
Energy-saving tips:
- The geyser is your biggest home energy user – save 40 percent on your usage by switching off during the day and reducing the temperature, particularly in summer.
- Go solar and save your wallet from skyrocketing electricity costs.
- Buy energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs and use electricity wisely.
- Use less fuel by walking, cycling or using public transport where possible – it’ll probably save you a fortune on gym fees too.
Waste management tips:
- Start composting, it makes for amazing fertiliser.
- Recycle. Recycle. Recycle. Put separate containers for paper, glass and plastics in your kitchen or garage and start dividing your waste.
- Create beauty through upcycling. The options are limitless, let your imagination take flight.
- Think before you buy.
Dtails: www.wwf.org.za
