Save those suds
Washing machines are major users of water in the home, so try not to operate them with small loads. If you are buying a new machine look for the 'Star' ratings which indicate good water efficiency: the more 'Stars' the better. Consider buying a front loading machine. They generally use less water than top loaders.
- Water Corporation
1. Use accredited green power: one of the best ways to reduce your carbon emissions is to sign up to electricity from renewable energy sources.
2. Insulate your home: it can save you hundreds of dollars each year on your energy bills and reduce your carbon emissions.
3. Use less hot water: water heating uses about a third of all the energy in the home.
4. Try driving less: you save 1.5kg of carbon dioxide for every 5km you don't drive.
5. Keep your car running well: make sure you keep your car in good working order. When buying a new car try to make your choice based on fuel consumption as much as style or brand.
6. Don't rely on standby: standby power from appliances averages 92 Watts per household or 800kWh per year. This can cost you around $105 annually.
7. Waste not, emit not: every tonne of paper recycled saves almost 13 trees, 2.5 barrels of oil, 4100kWh of electricity, 4 cubic metres of landfill and 31,780 litres of water.
8. Use your air conditioner less: turn your thermostat down 2°C in winter and up 2°C in summer. This can save up to 20 per cent on your heating and cooling bills as well as reducing greenhouse emissions.
9. Buy locally: buy as much produce as possible from local sources. Not only does this help boost the local economy, it reduces the amount of energy needed to get the product to you.
10. Actually do it!
