There is a great deal of talk on the news, social media, and within social circles about the role that people should take when it comes to the environment, and how our actions are impacting the planet. This seems to be a trend that is not going away anytime soon. People are far more aware of environmental issues, and the effects that they have on the environment as a whole. Just as important, there is an increasing understanding that we all have a role to play. The good news is that playing that role may be a whole lot easier than you may be thinking.
From reducing your personal environmental footprint, to living a greener and healthier life, there are many simple things that you can do to accomplish this goal. So without further ado, here are four tips that will help you to protect the environment.
Invest In Solar Power
Did you know that a modestly sized residential solar system could produce more than 21,000-kilowatt hours of electricity each year for the average size New England home? That is equivalent to avoiding the CO2 emissions of over 15,000 pounds of burned coal per year. Just think about that statistic for a minute. In essence, for every home that is paying for electricity through the local electric company, over 15,000 pounds of coal worth of emissions is released into the environment. Multiple that figure to include your entire neighborhood. In addition, solar power will save you a significant amount of money over time.
Only Purchase Seasonal Groceries From Local Farmers
Here is another interesting statistic for you. It has been estimated that approximately 13% of U.S. greenhouse gas emission are a direct result from the production and transport of food related items. The combination of purchasing locally grown, natural produce and eating a more diversified diet that includes less meats and more in-season vegetables drastically reduces the carbon emissions from pesticides and fertilizers. This move towards a healthier lifestyle also significantly reduces the amount of fuel that is needed to transport the food. As an added bonus, purchasing products from local farms also helps your local economy.
Significantly Reduce Your Water And Electricity Usage
Although this may be a lot easier to say than to actually do, it is important to significantly reduce both your water and electricity usage on a daily basis. For example, it takes a plethora of energy to pump, treat, and heat the water in your home. You can save a great deal of water by taking one shower per day instead of two, or waiting for the dishwasher or clothes washing machine to be completely full before running them. You can also save a tremendous amount of electricity by drying your clothes outside. In fact, electric clothes dryers are one of the biggest energy users in your home.
Have Your Storm Drains Cleaned On A Regular Basis
Most property owners are either unaware that their storm drains exist, or they know that the storm drains are there but do not pay much attention to them. That is until there is a problem. When property owners fail to have their storm drains cleaned on a regular basis it can lead to a back up in the system. In essence, when the storm drains are blocked and cannot perform their job, they tend to cause floods. The flooded water can enter directly into the property, which is a nuisance for the property owner. In regards to the environment, the damage can be even worse.
The water is usually contaminated with pollutants. The contaminated water typically flows to the nearest stream or river, where it then pollutes the local water system. It is incredibly important to have your storm drains cleaned at least once per year in order to protect the environment.
If you have any questions about having your storm drains cleaned, or would like to schedule service we are happy to help. Jolin Paving & Excavating, Inc. is your New England connection for a vast variety of environmentally related services. Our company has been serving Boston Massachusetts, Southern NH, VT & ME as well as Northern CT & RI since 1952. Please Contact us to learn more today.
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