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Most greenhouse emissions from Australian households are the result of energy used around the home for water heating, lighting and electronic appliances. There are plenty of easy things you can do that will reduce your emissions by several tonnes a year and save you hundreds of dollars.
10 top tips
- Flick the switch – turn off your appliances when you are not using them and switch off lights when you leave the room
- Change your lights – compact fluorescent light bulbs use 80% less energy and last up to 8 times longer than conventional light bulbs
- Count the stars – compare energy rating labels before you buy an appliance. Your appliances will cost less to run
- Think insulation – installing ceiling and wall insulation will minimise your heating and cooling costs
- Adjust the thermostat – decreasing the thermostat by even one degree can have a big impact on running costs
- Dress for the season – choosing appropriate clothing in winter and summer reduces our need for heating and cooling
- Be water wise – treating and transporting drinking water to homes consumes energy. Plant ‘water wise’ gardens and mulch your garden to minimise water use
- Reduce, reuse and recycle – the domestic waste we generate has a large impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Reduce, reuse and recycle whenever you can
- Buy local – transporting food and other products consumes a lot of fuel. Wherever you can, try to buy from farmers markets and other local providers
- Go green – most Australian electricity retailers offer a green option allowing you to get your energy from renewable sources. For less than a $1 a day, you could reduce your household emissions to zero
Did you know?
- Hot water can account for 25% of your energy bill. With an energy-efficient water heater and thoughtful use of hot water, you can reduce emissions and cut your hot water costs by 45%
- Insulation in your ceilings can cut your energy costs by 30%. If you're renovating, you can insulate walls as well and save another 15%
- A 1°C rise in temperature when heating your home, adds around 15% to your energy bill
Further links
Compare energy efficiency and star ratings for a range of electrical appliances that carry an energy label at www.energyrating.gov.au.
Make the switch to green power and cut your greenhouse emissions today. Find out more at the GreenPower website - a joint initiative of ACT, NSW, SA, QLD, VIC and WA government agencies.