Creating a green-friendly living environment can provide major cost savings and quality of life benefits for homeowners. In many cases, a few small changes and improvements can make a big difference in utility costs and environmental impact inside the home and in the surrounding area. Here are five simple ways to reduce the carbon footprint and increase the comfort and value of the family residence.
 

Control Erosion with Native Plantings

 
Landscaping the lawn and surrounding area properly can reduce runoff and limit water pollution from fertilizers, weed control applications and other chemical lawn treatments. Native plants are an ideal choice for landscape applications, as they are naturally suited to the climate and the terrain of the area in which they originated. Be cautious when introducing new plants to the outdoor environment. In some areas, these exotic invasive plants have taken over areas once dominated by native plant species, damaging fragile ecosystems and creating more problems for the local environment.
 

Reduce Temperatures for a Smaller Carbon Footprint

 
By reducing water heater and furnace temperatures, homeowners can not only cut heating costs but can reduce their overall carbon footprint as well. Fossil fuels can have a major negative impact on air quality and environmental responsibility. By reducing usage and lowering temperatures for these household systems, homeowners can ensure the green-friendly status of their property and manage diminishing environmental resources more efficiently.

Install a Septic Aeration System

For homes with a septic system, installing a septic aerator into the existing septic tank can provide added efficiency and prevent overflows and environmental impacts from these natural wastewater treatment plants. Septic aeration systems introduce oxygen into the tank environment, boosting the growth of aerobic bacteria and providing a more wholesome and efficient way to return wastewater safely to the outside environment. Aerobic septic systems are far more efficient than their anaerobic counterparts and produce fewer odors and overflow incidents. As a result, an aerobic septic tank solution is an ideal investment in environmental responsibility.
 

Get a Bright Idea

 
Installing energy-efficient fluorescent lighting can reduce utility bills and conserve electricity in the home environment. Lighting is one of the largest components of energy use in the typical home, so making the switch to these high-efficiency bulbs makes sense financially and from an environmental standpoint. Fluorescent lighting has seen significant improvements in recent years and offers a more natural reading and living environment for homeowners, family members and guests. Available in a wide range of colors and styles, fluorescent lights are an ideal way to go green and save green at the same time.
 

Reducing the Charges

 
While rechargeable devices provide significant environmental benefits by reducing the number of batteries consumed and discarded on an annual basis, the recharging stations can consume a considerable amount of energy if they remain plugged in when not in active use. By unplugging these devices after each charging session, homeowners can conserve energy and reduce electric bills significantly.
 
By taking these five simple steps toward environmental responsibility, homeowners can reap the benefits of green-friendly living and preserve the natural environment for future generations to experience and enjoy.