We'll have to wean Ourselves from wasting things, By thinking more efficiently we can save money effectively Yes, that's the key to thinking green. -- Primm
What does it mean to go green? Unless you live on the planet Mars you hear it everywhere. On the news, on college campuses, from government officials, even in car commercials. I even heard a rap song about going green.
The Going Green Movement has spawned a whole new language with words like Greenhouse Gases, Closed Loop Recycling and everyone's favorite Global Warming. Plus a host of other terms too many to mention here.
What does it all mean? The Going Green movement, popularized by former Vice President Al Gore, is performing actions that work to save the environment. For example, recycling, using low-energy appliances, conserving water and a host of other actions people can take.
Yes, Eco- friendly homes are the new trend today, whether you're a home builder or a home buyer. Because it not only works to help save the planet but it's a dependable way to save money. The U.S government is even paying people who own homes to go greener in the form of tax breaks and tax credits.
In this week's newsletter I'll give you simple but effective tips to helping your household go green. But most important show not only how to go green but how to save some green ... as in money.
Here are 5 Tips To Help Your Home Go Green and Save Some Green.
1. Install Low Energy Light Bulbs.
A quick and easy way to start turning your home green and saving the green is by installing energy efficient light bulbs in your home.
Energy efficient light bulbs technical name is Compact Fluorescent lights or CFL's for short. These light bulbs use one-third the electrical energy of old fashion incandescent light bulbs. In addition, they can last up to 10 times longer. This is instant money savings. Can you say Ka-ching?
2. Trade Thirsty Plants and Landscaping for Drought or Low Maintenance Plants.
Low maintenance plants and landscaping will not only save your home energy cost; it can also save your energy.
Imaging having beautiful landscaping without the hassle of watering, weeding and pampering it on your precious days off. All it takes is a little thought and a little planning.
For example, use plants that are native to your area of the country. Why? Because they're easier to grow and maintain - plus they'll use less water.
Pick landscaping that adapts with the climate and soil conditions in your area. The best way to do this is to consult with your local nurseries.
3. Use More Natural Products to Decorate Your Home Instead of Manufactured Products.
When decorating your home think water saving shower heads, toilets and faucets.
When decorating think natural woods like bamboo, teak and other woods that grow fast.
For example, think African Decor. Because many of the woods used come from trees that grow fast and plentiful.
4. Let Your Uncle Sam Pay You To Go Green.
You can receive Home Energy Efficiency Improvement Tax Credits. According to the U.S Department of Energy, consumers who purchase and install specific products, such as energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs, and heating and cooling equipment in the home can receive a tax credit of up to $500 beginning in January 2006.
The EPACT (The Energy Policy Act of 2005).
This Federal law provides a credit equal to 30% of qualifying expenditures. For purchase of qualified photo voltaic property and for solar water heating property used exclusively for purposes other than heating swimming pools and hot tubs.
The credit shall not exceed $2000.
Improvements must be installed in or on the taxpayer's principal residence in the United States. Home improvement tax credits apply for improvements made between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2007. -U.S Department of Energy
5. Decorate With More Plants Instead of Plastics.
EPA studies confirm indoor air pollution affects more people than outdoor pollutions. Because of low air circulation indoors and the number of manufactured products such as plastics, glues and paint located inside homes, indoor air pollutions continue as a growing threat. Especially to the many African Americans who suffer from respiratory ailments such as asthma, sinus problems and other allergies.
Natural plants not only work to beautify your decor they have also proven to fight indoor air pollutants. Certain plants help to clear pollutants such as dust, chemicals and allergens from the air. For more details on this subject Click Here!
Yes, thinking green can save you green in and around your home. I encourage you to continue to educate yourself on how you can think green. It's easy once you start the habit of thinking green. You'll suddenly see how you're saving money, saving your time and saving the environment so our children can enjoy it too.
Roy Primm Founder and Publisher of BlackHomeOwnerNews.com the largest source of information for black homeowners. Subscribe to free newsletter and receive the latest home value increasing tips, free government grants benefiting homeowners. Get free ebook 99 Ways To Live Better On Less Money at ...ShoppersCoach.com
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