This year many readers have resolved to maintain or rev up their green lifestyle. We’re here to help!

Winter chill has definitely been felt in the tri-state area recently. Frigid temps often have us thinking about the cozy and warm and admittedly sometimes doing what ever is most convenient and easy. But, keeping your home eco-friendly during winter doesn’t have to be hard or time consuming.

Here are some tips for the winter season:

• Yes, it’s cold out but that doesn’t mean your home needs to be a sweat box.  Try setting your thermostat to 68°. Your heating system will operate less and use less energy. When you leave your house during the day, and when you’re able to  bundle up in bed at night, turn your thermostat down 5°
• Take advantage of natural sunlight by opening window shades and coverings on south-facing windows to warm your home effortlessly.  Also, consider closing window coverings in rooms that receive no direct sunlight to insulate from cold window drafts. At night, close window coverings to retain heat.
• If you have a wood-burning fireplace (lucky!) save your ashes in a tin container instead of throwing them away. Cold wood ashes can be put  in your compost to create a soil that provides nutrients to your garden. Bonus: If you’re lighting a fire you can turn down thermostat to save energy.
• If winter has you craving cups of hot cocoa or tea consider using an energy-saving electric kettle over a microwave or range top stove.
• If it’s time to replace old appliances opt for ENERGY star certified.

What are you guys doing this winter to stay eco-friendly?

Posted by Beth

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Beth is a Health and Wellness expert who believes sustainability goes hand-in-hand with self care. She’s the girl whipping up kombucha cocktails at parties, and extolling the benefits of canning vegetables to anyone who will listen. View all posts by Beth Funari