The Ripple Effect of Routine Decisions

Consider the average morning. A single-use coffee cup, a quick online shopping scroll, and maybe even a few clicks to have dinner delivered. These may seem like mundane activities, but they’re all part of a much larger chain reaction. That coffee cup? It’s likely lined with plastic that’s not recyclable. That online purchase? It might involve unnecessary packaging and carbon-heavy shipping. Multiply that by millions of people across the world, and the environmental toll quickly escalates.

The truth is, our daily habits are not isolated. They’re tied into larger systems of energy consumption, waste generation, and resource extraction. By understanding the environmental cost of our consumption patterns, we gain the power to shift them in more sustainable directions.

Rethinking What We Buy (And How Much)

Consumer culture has long been driven by convenience and abundance, but that often comes with a hidden cost. Fast fashion, for instance, contributes significantly to water pollution and textile waste. The production of cheap, trendy clothing consumes massive amounts of water and releases microplastics into oceans every time synthetic garments are washed.

A growing number of consumers are now leaning into minimalism, secondhand shopping, and brands that prioritize sustainable production. Choosing to buy less—and better—can help reduce demand for resource-intensive manufacturing and lower your personal environmental conservation footprint. This means not only saving energy and resources but also supporting a system that values quality and longevity over excess.

Similarly, everyday household products—from cleaning supplies to beauty items—often contain chemicals that end up in our waterways. Opting for eco-friendly alternatives or making simple homemade solutions can make a real difference, not just for the planet but for your health too.

Food Choices Matter More Than You Think

One of the most influential areas of consumer behavior lies in what we eat. The environmental impact of food production is enormous, especially when it comes to meat and dairy. Livestock farming is a leading source of methane emissions, a powerful greenhouse gas, and requires extensive land and water use.

This doesn’t mean everyone needs to go vegan overnight, but small adjustments—like participating in Meatless Mondays or reducing food waste—can significantly lighten our environmental load. Supporting local farmers and buying seasonal produce are also great ways to make meals more sustainable. They cut down on transportation emissions and help foster local ecosystems.

Plastic: The Persistent Problem

Despite growing awareness, plastic pollution remains one of the most visible environmental challenges. From oceans to mountaintops, plastic waste is everywhere. The issue isn’t just the material itself but how it’s designed: most plastic products are made to be used once and discarded.

Carrying a reusable water bottle or shopping bag might seem trivial, but these choices prevent thousands of disposable items from entering landfills or ecosystems over time. On a broader level, shifting consumer preferences away from single-use plastics pressures companies to redesign packaging and adopt greener alternatives.

Energy Use in the Everyday

Many consumers don’t realize how much control they have over energy usage. Leaving lights on, cranking up the air conditioner, or running half-full washing machines may not seem like big deals individually. But energy waste adds up, and much of our power still comes from fossil fuels.

Simple behavior changes—like using LED bulbs, unplugging electronics, or investing in energy-efficient appliances—can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. And for those who can, supporting renewable energy programs through your utility provider is an even bigger step.

Transportation and the Carbon Trail

The way we move around has a substantial impact on the environment. Car travel, especially when used solo, is a major contributor to carbon emissions. Public transportation, biking, or carpooling can dramatically cut those numbers. With electric vehicles becoming more accessible, consumers now have greener alternatives to traditional gas-powered cars.

Urban centers around the world, including those across the USA, are beginning to recognize the importance of sustainable transportation systems. As individuals demand better transit options and walkable cities, policy and infrastructure tend to follow.

Small Shifts, Big Results

The beauty of mindful consumption is that it doesn’t demand perfection. Not everyone can afford organic produce or solar panels, and that’s okay. The point isn’t to do everything, but to do something. Small, consistent changes from a large group of people often outweigh the efforts of a few doing it perfectly.

It’s also worth noting the power of influence. Friends and family often take cues from those around them. When you bring a reusable container, choose a sustainable brand, or talk about conscious shopping habits, it subtly encourages others to do the same.

Organizations like The Brady Hunter Foundation recognize the importance of both large-scale environmental action and individual responsibility. By supporting grassroots efforts and promoting education around conservation, they’re helping to connect the dots between personal choices and global impact.

In a world where it’s easy to feel powerless in the face of environmental issues, everyday consumer decisions are a reminder that we each hold influence. By being intentional with what we buy, eat, and use, we become part of a much-needed cultural shift—one that values sustainability, balance, and a healthier future for all.

Why Louisville for Your Next Property?

Louisville, Kentucky’s biggest city, is a hub of history, art, and diverse neighborhoods. It’s the perfect mix of Southern charm and modern living. Whether you’re looking to settle down, invest or move, Louisville has a lot to offer:

1.     Affordability: Compared to other big cities, Louisville is cheaper to live and own.
2.     Cultural Experience: From the Kentucky Derby to bourbon tours, there’s no lack of unique experiences.
3.     Many Neighborhoods: From the historic Highlands to the upscale Prospect area, you can find homes that fit your lifestyle.

Having a professional by your side who knows the local real estate scene is key.

Kentucky Real Estate Beyond Louisville

Kentucky real estate goes beyond Louisville. The state is known for its countryside, equestrian properties and small town charm. Buyers can find everything from urban condos to estate homes, depending on what you want.

For a broader search across the state, visit the site FastExpert for top real estate agents in Kentucky. They’ll connect you with properties in areas like Lexington, Bowling Green and Covington so you can find your perfect fit.

How Top Real Estate Agents Can Help You

Realtors are more than guides, they’re strategic partners to help you achieve your real estate goals. Their knowledge and expertise can make a big difference in your buying or selling experience. Here’s how they can help:

• Market Research: Agents give you valuable info on pricing trends so you don’t overpay or undervalue your property.
• Access to Listings: They have access to properties not yet publicly listed.
• Negotiation Skills: Realtors are skilled at negotiating terms in your favor, whether you’re a buyer or seller.

Time and Stress Savings: They’ll handle paperwork, inspections and scheduling for you.

Best Louisville Neighborhoods

Louisville has many neighborhoods to fit your lifestyle and budget. Here are the top areas to consider:

1. The Highlands

Historic district with charming architecture, nightlife and eclectic shops. Favorite among young professionals and families.

2. Nulu (New Louisville)

Trendy area with art galleries, unique eateries and modern condos. Urban lifestyle.

3. Prospect

Suburban setting with luxury homes on the outskirts of the city. Parks and golf courses for families.

4. Old Louisville

Historic Victorian architecture. Perfect for history buffs and those who want to feel nostalgic.

Kentucky Real Estate

Outside of Louisville, Kentucky has many other great real estate markets. Here are the areas to look into:

1. Lexington

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World”. Equestrian properties and city and country living.

2. Bowling Green

Growing city with affordable homes, friendly atmosphere and Western Kentucky University.

3. Covington

Near Cincinnati, small town charm with big city amenities. Perfect for young professionals.

4. Frankfort

State capital with history and affordable housing. First time buyers.

Tips for Buying in Kentucky

Buying in Kentucky can be overwhelming but with the right approach you’ll be better prepared. Here are some tips:

1.     Define Your Budget: Know what you can afford and stick to it.
2.     Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: Sets your budget and tells sellers you’re a serious buyer.
3.     Research Neighborhoods: Visit neighborhoods to see amenities, schools and community.
4.     Work with a Local Agent: They know the area so you can make informed decisions.

Inspections: Plan for them to avoid surprises after you buy.

Selling Your Property? Here’s What Realtors Do

If you’re selling in Louisville or anywhere in Kentucky, working with a realtor is just as important. They do all this:

• Accurate Pricing: They use market data to price your home to sell.
• Marketing Magic: From professional photography to online listings, they get your home seen by the most people.
• Offer Handling: They handle offers and counteroffers so you get the best deal.
• Streamlined Process: They oversee the whole process from showings to closing.

Investment Opportunities in Kentucky

Kentucky is a great place to invest in real estate. Here’s why:

• High Demand: Cities like Louisville and Lexington are attracting renters as their economies grow.
• Low Entry Costs: Compared to national averages, Kentucky’s real estate market is more affordable for new investors.
• Multiple Options: From vacation homes to multifamily units, the state offers many investment choices.

Working with a knowledgeable realtor ensures you find properties with the best return on investment.

Why Local Know-How Matters

Navigating real estate in Kentucky requires local know-how. Agents familiar with Louisville’s hot market or the charm of smaller towns can find things online searches may miss. Their connections – from inspectors to lenders – make the process stress-free.

Key areas like bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces are used frequently and can benefit significantly from thoughtful updates. These projects don’t have to be overwhelming—prioritizing specific rooms and planning strategically can make the process smoother.

This article highlights seven key areas in the home that often need remodeling. By focusing on these spaces, you can create a home that’s both practical and inviting.

1. The Living Room:
   The living room serves as a central gathering space for families and guests, making it an important area to keep updated and comfortable. Remodeling this space can involve simple changes like repainting walls or upgrading furniture, or more extensive projects like installing built-in shelves or new flooring.

Focus on creating a balance between functionality and style. For example, adding a statement fireplace or enhancing natural lighting with larger windows can elevate the room’s appeal. If storage is an issue, consider incorporating hidden storage options, such as ottomans with compartments or TV stands with built-in shelves.

Comfort is key in the living room, so select furniture and décor that reflect your personal style while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.

2. The Bathrooms:
   Bathrooms endure daily use, making them a prime candidate for remodeling. Over time, fixtures may become outdated, tiles may crack, and the overall design can feel stale. Upgrading your bathroom not only boosts comfort but also increases your home’s resale value.

Simple changes like replacing old faucets, adding new tiles, or upgrading the vanity can create a fresh, modern look. If you’re considering a more extensive remodel, services like All Weather Seal bathroom remodeling can help you transform the space with high-quality results.

Think about incorporating energy-efficient fixtures, such as low-flow toilets and water-saving showerheads, to reduce water consumption. Adding storage solutions like built-in shelves or medicine cabinets can also maximize space and keep the area tidy.

3. The Master Bedroom:
   Your master bedroom should be a tranquil retreat from the rest of the house. Remodeling this space can make it more comfortable, functional, and reflective of your personal taste.

Common updates include installing hardwood or plush carpet flooring, repainting the walls in soothing colors, and upgrading lighting fixtures. Built-in wardrobes or custom closet systems can add storage and help keep the room organized.

Consider adding a reading nook or a small seating area for additional comfort. If your budget allows, upgrading the windows to let in more natural light or adding blackout curtains can enhance both the aesthetic and practicality of the space.

4. The Home Office:
   With remote work becoming more common, having a functional home office has become essential. A well-designed workspace can boost productivity and make working from home more enjoyable.

Start by choosing a quiet area in your home to set up your office. Add built-in desks, shelves, and storage to keep the area tidy and efficient. Proper lighting is also crucial—natural light is ideal, but desk lamps and overhead lighting can make the space brighter and more inviting.

Ergonomic furniture, such as adjustable chairs and desks, ensures that your workspace is comfortable and supports your health during long workdays. Personalize the space with artwork, plants, or photos to make it feel more inspiring.

5. The Basement:
   Basements often go unused or underutilized, becoming cluttered storage spaces instead of functional areas. However, with a thoughtful remodel, your basement can transform into a valuable extension of your home.

Consider turning your basement into a family room, home gym, or even an extra bedroom for guests. Proper insulation and moisture control are essential to make the space comfortable and free from dampness. Choose durable flooring, such as vinyl or laminate, that can withstand the basement’s conditions.

Built-in shelves or cabinets can keep the space organized, while adding windows or light fixtures improves the overall atmosphere. A remodeled basement not only enhances your living space but also increases your property’s value.

6. The Outdoor Patio or Deck:
   Outdoor spaces are just as important as indoor ones, especially for entertaining or relaxing. A well-designed patio or deck enhances your home’s curb appeal and provides a space for hosting gatherings or enjoying family time outdoors.

Remodeling options include upgrading your decking material to a more durable option, such as composite or treated wood, and adding comfortable seating or outdoor furniture. Consider incorporating features like a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, or pergola to make the space more versatile.

Weather-resistant materials and proper maintenance will ensure your patio or deck remains functional and attractive year-round. An inviting outdoor area also increases the value of your home and expands your living space.

7. The Garage:
   Garages are often overlooked during remodeling projects, but they offer significant potential for additional storage or functional space. A well-organized garage can serve as a workspace, storage area, or even a home gym.

Install overhead storage racks, wall-mounted hooks, and built-in cabinets to keep tools, sports equipment, and seasonal items organized. Upgrading the flooring with epoxy coatings or interlocking tiles not only improves the look but also protects the concrete from wear and tear.

For added convenience, consider installing a smart garage door opener or better lighting to make the space more accessible. An updated garage can enhance your home’s efficiency and increase its overall appeal.

Remodeling key areas of your home ensures functionality, comfort, and increased property value. From the living room and bathrooms to the basement and garage, every space has the potential to become more practical and visually appealing with thoughtful updates.

Even small changes, such as reorganizing your garage or setting up a home office, can significantly impact your home’s overall feel and usability.

By prioritizing these updates, you can create a home that adapts to your lifestyle and continues to bring comfort for years to come.

Remodeling is an investment not just in your property but in your everyday living experience. Start with these suggestions and enjoy the benefits of a home that works better for you and your family.

This guide will explore the multifaceted benefits of bundled pallets, from their impact on material reduction and waste minimization to their role in optimizing storage space and transportation efficiency.

What Are Bunded Pallets? 

Bunded pallets, also known as spill containment pallets or secondary containment pallets, are specialized platforms designed to store and handle containers of hazardous or liquid substances safely. They are equipped with integrated bunds—spill containment basins or trays—that capture leaks, spills, or drips from stored items such as drums, Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), or tanks. These pallets are vital in environmental protection, workplace safety, and regulatory compliance.

The Role of Bunded Pallets in Sustainable Industrial Practices 

Beyond their functional utility, bunded pallets significantly enhance safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. Here is an elaboration on how bunded pallets promote sustainable industrial practices:

1. Preventing Environmental Contamination 

Environmental protection is at the core of sustainability, and bunded pallets directly address this concern by preventing hazardous spills from contaminating soil, waterways, or local ecosystems. These pallets are designed with built-in containment basins that capture leaks and spills from drums, containers, or tanks.

Without such measures, even minor spills can lead to long-term environmental damage, including the poisoning of groundwater and harm to aquatic life. By acting as a physical barrier between harmful substances and the environment, bunded pallets enable industries to meet strict environmental standards while showcasing their commitment to preserving natural resources.

2. Supporting Waste Reduction 

When hazardous substances spill, the result is environmental harm and material wastage. Bunded pallets reduce waste by allowing industries to recover leaked liquids for reuse or proper disposal. This capability aligns with the principles of a circular economy, where materials are kept in use for as long as possible.

Instead of discarding spilled liquids, businesses can save resources, reduce purchasing costs, and lower waste output. Bunded pallets’ waste-reducing nature makes them invaluable assets for companies striving to minimize their ecological footprint and improve operational efficiency.

3. Promoting Regulatory Compliance 

Industrial operations involving hazardous materials are often subject to stringent environmental regulations. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, legal challenges, and reputational damage. Bunded pallets help businesses meet these regulatory requirements by ensuring proper containment of hazardous substances. In doing so, they reduce the risk of accidental releases that could result in penalties.

Moreover, using bunded pallets demonstrates a proactive approach to safety and sustainability, fostering a culture of accountability. This protects businesses from liabilities and strengthens their standing with regulators, customers, and stakeholders.

4. Enhancing Workplace Safety 

Spills of hazardous liquids pose significant risks to workers, including chemical exposure and slip-and-fall accidents. Bunded pallets mitigate these risks by securely containing chemical spills before they spread across workspaces. This not only ensures the safety of employees but also minimizes disruptions caused by workplace accidents.

A safe work environment fosters employee well-being and productivity, integral to sustainable operations. By investing in bunded pallets, companies prioritize the health and safety of their workforce while maintaining uninterrupted workflows.

5. Improving Resource Efficiency 

Bunded pallets are designed for durability and are often constructed from materials such as high-density polyethylene, which is both robust and recyclable. Their long lifespan reduces the frequency of replacements, conserving resources and lowering the environmental impact of manufacturing new spill pallets.

Additionally, many bunded pallets are modular, allowing for flexible configurations that optimize storage solutions and handling. This adaptability enhances operational efficiency, reduces material waste, and supports sustainability by effectively utilizing resources.

6. Supporting Green Certifications and ESG Goals 

Incorporating bunded pallets into industrial practices can directly support a company’s efforts to achieve green certifications and meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives. These certifications often require businesses to demonstrate robust environmental and safety measures, and bunded pallets provide a clear, practical solution.

By reducing environmental risks and improving operational safety, spill pallets help businesses align with sustainability benchmarks. This alignment strengthens their position in competitive markets and attracts eco-conscious investors and partners, showcasing their dedication to responsible operations.

7. Promoting a Culture of Sustainability 

Bunded spill pallets are more than functional equipment—they symbolize an organization’s commitment to sustainable practices. Their use encourages a culture of environmental responsibility within the company, reminding employees, partners, and stakeholders of the importance of reducing ecological impact.

By integrating bunded pallets into daily operations, companies create an environment where sustainability is prioritized at every level, fostering innovation and collaboration toward greener solutions. This cultural shift further enhances the company’s reputation as a leader in sustainable industrial practices.

Preventing contamination, reducing waste, ensuring compliance, and fostering a culture of sustainability demonstrate how practical innovations can support long-term environmental and economic goals.

Conclusion 

By embracing bundled pallets, industries can significantly reduce their environmental impact while improving operational efficiency. This sustainable solution offers many benefits, from minimizing waste and conserving resources to optimizing storage and transportation. As the world increasingly prioritizes eco-friendly practices, bundled pallets position businesses at the forefront of sustainable innovation.

Americans produced 254 tons of waste in 2013, roughly 4.4 pounds of waste per person each day. This is more than every other country in the world and some of the biggest culprits of daily waste are businesses. However, they don’t need to be. Transforming a small local or home-run business into a “green” operation is a simple and cost-effective undertaking that, over time, can decrease operating costs and protect the environment.

Choosing to become more energy efficient and limit excess waste is the easiest way for small, home-run business to limit landfill pollution, cut utility costs and even win business with environmentally conscious millennials. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Be Energy Efficient

There are multiple ways for home businesses to improve their energy efficiency. The easiest method is to install Energy Star appliances and light fixtures, replacing outdated electronics during the process. Energy Star products use up to 70 percent less electricity than older, less-efficient appliances. The EPA says switching to energy-efficient products can save businesses 2-10 percent on electric, gas and water bills.

Artificial lighting makes up about 44 percent of a business’s annual energy costs. But unlike a brick & mortar hardware store, home businesses don’t need to always have the lights on in every room. This difference alone saves energy, but you can take it further and swap from incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient fluorescent bulbs. Fluorescent (and even some L.E.D.) bulbs use up to two-thirds less electricity than a standard incandescent bulb.

Computer usage is another area of massive energy waste. The Sierra Club estimates workplaces waste nearly $1 billion annually because employees don’t turn off their computers. Set up computers to automatically enter sleep mode or hibernation after 15 minutes without use.

Embracing smart home technology is another method to further enhance your how energy efficient your home business can become. By monitoring and controlling the room temperature, pipe leak sensors, security system, and even the electrical outlets, smart home technology can save businesses up to 25 percent on electrical bills and up to 50 percent on water bills.

Limit Excess Resource Waste

Although email correspondence is the most common form of workplace communication, printers remain a prevalent force in the home office. Mashable estimates that “the average American still uses the equivalent of a 100-foot Douglas fir tree year each year.” It’s crucial to use that paper wisely and reuse it whenever possible. Offices can often get two uses out of each piece of paper. If printing is necessary, then print draft, faxes or notes on the back of previously used papers.

Be Conscious of Your Website

Website servers must constantly be on, drawing power from the grid and causing larger energy demands on the local energy infrastructure. The Huffington Post reports that choosing “green hosting” services reduces the carbon footprint servers create and may be cheaper than normal hosting services.

Get an Energy Audit

Energy audits are a great way to see if your home business as unseen opportunities to shore up its energy usage. A professional audit evaluates everything from energy bills to weatherstripping, showing you what improvements you can make and how much energy those modifications can save. Many states have free energy audits available for qualifying businesses or homeowners, and the Department of Energy also has a guide on how to perform a self-guided energy audit.

By following the above advice, your business can help save the environment, decrease operating costs and protect local community resources. It’s crucial for us all do what we can to combat pollution and waste, and these first steps can make a huge difference.

Royalty Free Photo

Supporting Recycling

The first way you can contribute to a better environment is by supporting manufacturers who apply recycling when producing construction materials. Recycling protects the environment by reducing the level of garbage. Additionally, when a company transforms used materials into a new product, the natural resources are preserved, less energy is consumed and there are fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling can also prove beneficial in home demolition, choosing a home dumpster rental to remove any unwanted furniture items from the site before demolishing it is a good use of resources. Recycling this and other materials from the construction site supports an effective and reduced waste management plan that promotes sustainable construction methods.

Use Materials that Don’t Harm the Environment

The other option is to evaluate the ingredients in the materials you use for work and minimize harmful materials that have a negative impact on the environment. Follow industry trends and environmentalists’ discussions to stay up-to-date with what should be done away with. When you go for safer options, you help your clients meet their goals without harming anyone’s health and impacting the environment negatively. However, not everything you use in the construction process will be safe. Some of the essential chemicals you need are harmful to humans and the environment. Consider the next step on how to handle them.

Minimize Discharge of Chemicals

As stated above, you will handle some chemicals that are harmful to health and the environment. In such a case, ensure that you have a good plan on how to handle the chemicals safely to minimize environmental pollution. According to the EPA guidelines, contractors are expected to comply with the pollution prevention requirements. Examples of these requirements include eliminating discharge for leaked chemical, storing waste in sealed containers and cleaning up immediately after overflows. When you hire workers, ensure they are trained on safety and environmental pollution before work begins.

Consider Lead Paint Certification

This certification is necessary when handling lead renovation, repair and painting. Lead based paint poses a danger to both children and adults. Lead has a negative effect on vital body organs such as the brain, kidneys and blood vessels. Therefore, exposure can lead to brain and heart problems. Exposed children may have a low IQ whereas expectant women may be at risk of getting children with birth defects.

To reduce these risks, as a contractor, you should get a course from an accredited training provider such as ZOTApro training. The training covers lead pollution prevention, regulatory requirements, and safety precautions while at work. As a contractor, you will also be trained on how to effectively train your workers.

In addition to safeguarding your health, lead certification training is essential to avoid fines. Since this is a federal rule by the EPA, anyone who doesn’t adhere can be fined up to $37,500 per day. Therefore, ensure that you are certified before you take up such projects.

Invest in Quiet Tools

To reduce noise pollution, consider investing in quiet tools or tools with low impact. Where this is not possible, have a structure around the construction area to shield the noise.

By being a responsible contractor, you will make the environment a better place. Obey the laws imposed by the authorities and exercise due diligence as well to avoid making decisions that would harm others.

During the holiday season, energy bills usually spike. The oven sees more use as you prepare for guests. Christmas lights may stay on until ten o’clock at night or later, and people come in and out of your home for social gatherings and family festivities. Security and safety concerns also increase, particularly if you plan to travel anywhere—leaving your home vulnerable to burglary.

This article covers seven DIY projects designed to not only improve home security but also make your home more eco-friendly. As you head into the holidays, consider tackling a few of the projects on the list to help reduce energy bills and increase safety.

1. Maintain the Landscaping

Would-be thieves and vandals typically avoid well-maintained yards, and shrubs and trees can prevent easy entry. The time and effort put into the lawn suggests vigilance—entering your backyard could mean getting caught on video or targeted by the dog. Just make sure any shrubs and bushes are trimmed and smaller so burglars can’t hide among them.

Shrubs and trees offer eco-friendly benefits too. A shade tree, for example, reduces your energy bills as it grows into maturity. To achieve the result and ensure minimal impact on the local environment, purchase native plants. These hardy fellows grow easier and are low maintenance; they won’t require water by the buckets or odd amounts of sunshine.

2. Mount a Solar-Powered Home Security Camera

A home security camera is one of your best bets against theft and property damage. Some require a complex installation wired into your home’s electrical system. Others are wireless, run on batteries, and use Wi-Fi.

However, wired or battery-powered outdoor security cameras may not entirely serve your eco-friendly endeavors. Not to worry; some manufacturers offer solar-powered home security cameras. These cameras not only will increase home safety and security but also won’t raise your carbon footprint or your energy bill.

3. Weatherproof and Secure Doors and Windows

Weatherproofing combined with smart locks can improve home security and help conserve energy within your home. You should visit your doors and windows every year and assess whether the weather stripping needs to be replaced. Also use this time to look for other energy thieves, such as insufficient insulation.

To improve home security, combine your weatherproofing efforts with smart locks. Most smart locks are relatively easy to install, so the work won’t add much time to your project. The locks also enhance home security by letting you assign temporary key codes for different people, guaranteeing only authorized individuals can enter your home, such as the neighbor on pet duty over the holidays.

4. Install Eco-friendly Motion Sensor Lights

Besides installing smart locks and home security cameras, consider installing outdoor motion sensor lights as these lights often use solar power and employ LED bulbs, making them eco-friendly. The lights will frustrate a would-be burglar since they respond to movement, pinning thieves in the spotlight before they can reach your home.

5. Invest in LED Interior Lights and Timers

Installing interior LED lights and sensors can also help with security and sustainability. These lights can make thieves believe you’re home even when you’re away at your holiday destination. With indoor smart lights, you can often set them on a schedule so they turn on at preset times.

These lights also offer sustainability through less energy consumption. Timers and sensors, for instance, ensure lights turn off automatically. They can also be managed remotely, which helps if you work late or get stuck at the airport.

6. Generate Backup Power with Solar Energy

No matter how “smart” the devices you buy for your home, they require a power source. Provide these devices with a solar energy system. Depending on your setup, you can conserve excess solar energy in a battery that works a bit like a backup generator. If the power fails for some reason, your home stays secure and safe.

A solar energy system also decreases electric costs. And, in some cases, electricity providers are willing to buy your excess solar power. In those instances, the sun’s power pads your pocketbook, giving you extra funds to spend on gifts or put toward an expensive ticket purchase.

7. Buy a Home Automation Hub

Because many of the devices and projects shared here are “smart,” you should consider buying a smart home hub, such as the Samsung SmartThings hub, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Amazon Echo. These hubs streamline management of connected devices. With one, you can usually log in to a single app, rather than several, to control your home’s locks, lights, cameras, and sensors.

The hub and app enable greater sustainability and security because you monitor and manage your home from anywhere in the world. The hub also sends alerts to your smartphone so you can respond to possible problems. In doing so, you achieve your goal of secure, green living.

The holidays are here, but you don’t have to accept the higher utility bills or increased security concerns this year. No, you can thwart them with the seven ideas listed here. Each helps ensure a more eco-friendly, secure home, allowing you to enjoy all the mirth and memories during the holidays and beyond.

1. Conserve Insight Energy Use Monitor

A great first step toward reducing your energy output is being aware of what it is. This energy use monitor from Belkin lets you find out how much energy various devices in your home are using, as well as how much they cost to use — putting you more in control of your carbon footprint and energy bills. You can use it to find out how much energy your LED lightbulbs use compared to your old incandescent ones. Or you can see how much energy your home security system uses when you’re away, helping you gain a clearer picture of what saves energy and money in your home.

Cost: $29.99

2. Easybulb Plus Lightbulbs

These smart lightbulbs are Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled with your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. Because they’re LED, Easybulbs are much more energy efficient than standard bulbs, and can last up to twenty-five years — so you won’t need to worry about replacing them often. Features like Save-As-You-Dim, sleep mode, and timer settings allow you to reduce your energy output while giving you extensive lighting options. And the best part? You don’t need any electrical know-how to install them!

There are several different Easybulb smartbulbs ranging from 4 to 9 watts, all of which come with 16 million different color options — so your lighting can always complement your mood. Easybulbs are also made without harmful chemicals like mercury, so you can help the earth without worrying that you’re harming your health.

Cost: varies

3. The Nest Learning Thermostat

Almost half of your energy use comes from your heating and cooling, so updating to a Nest Learning Thermostat may be the greenest step you can take for your home. It learns your temperature preferences in just a few days of use and will create a schedule around them, ensuring that your space isn’t heated or cooled unnecessarily.

Nest conducted two independent studies of families using their thermostats and found that on average, people saved 10% to 12% on heating and 15% on cooling, or around $140 each year. It’s also the first thermostat ever to get certified by ENERGY STAR. If you want to see just how energy efficient the Nest Learning Thermostat is, check out the counter on their website, which constantly updates to show how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy have been saved since 2011. (It’s already in the billions!)

Cost: $249

4. Solio’s BOLT Battery Pack + Solar Charger

If you’re the adventurous type, this solar-powered battery pack could be a great addition to your gear. Use it to charge your phone, Kindle, GoPro, or other USB-powered gadgets using your device’s charging cable when you’re not near a power source. You can expect your dead smartphone to fully charge in around ninety minutes with the battery pack. The BOLT can also be charged when the sun goes down via its Micro-USB port. It has a 1Amp output and can store charge for up to a year, meaning you don’t have to worry about the charge going down before you get around to using it.

Charge time with USB port/wall charger: 4 ½ hours

Charge time with sun’s rays: 8–10 hours

Cost: $70

5. Smart Strip LCG3 Surge Protector

Smart power strips help reduce your energy usage by shutting off power to appliances that have a standby mode. Standby power consumption accounts for nearly 5%–10% of total energy consumption in the average household, so it’s definitely worth investing in a smart power strip like this one from Smart Strip. It has ten different outlets and a four-foot cord, as well as a right-angle plug so it doesn’t stick out from the wall. These strips work well with entertainment systems to keep your devices from wasting energy and to protect them from any power surges.

Cost: $34.99

Try not to get overwhelmed by all the choices when it comes to energy-saving gadgets for your home. Determine where you’re using the most energy unnecessarily and invest in solving that problem first, then continue to make more positive changes over time. Only when everyone recognizes the need to chip in and help protect the planet will we start seeing the kind of global transformations that promote true sustainability. Keep doing your part however you can and encourage others to do the same.