There are plenty of ways to do your bit for the environment without compromising your lifestyle or your finances; but if you really want to make a difference then you’ll need to put your money where your good intentions are. These five great eco investments will help you on your way to a carbon neutral lifestyle.
1. An electric car: It wasn’t long ago that electric cars were considered to be an unrealistic and inconvenient means of transport. Lengthy charge times, a slow top speed and fixed batteries gave them a stigma that was difficult to throw off. Nowadays however, with innovative companies such as Better Place pushing designs with removable batteries, a future dominated by electric vehicles doesn’t seem so impossible. There are already plenty of electric models on the market, although many are beyond the price range of the average buyer. Instead, consider investing in an economical and fuel-efficient hybrid.
2. Solar panels: As an investment, solar panels take some years to pay for themselves through reduced electricity bills; but if your first object is the environment then they’re a great choice. A renewable energy specialist will be able to advise you on whether solar power is a realistic method of supplying your home with heating and electricity, or whether you might be better off considering an alternative method of renewable energy such as wind or geothermal. A number of government and local council grants are available for making green alterations to your home, so don’t shell out without first investigating the finance options.
3. A new boiler: If your house isn’t suitable for solar panels then you may want to consider giving your existing central heating system an overhaul. Replacing your old boiler with a newer condensing model can reduce the amount of energy used to heat your home by up to 40%. If you decide to invest in a new system then choose a model with an ‘A’ rating for efficiency and have it installed by a reputable company such as British Gas, who offer an extensive condensing boiler range on their website.
4. An allotment: You don’t have to spend a fortune to invest in a green future. If an electric car or a new heating system is beyond your budget, think about hiring an allotment instead. There is currently a long waiting list for good plots, but once you have yours secured you can grow much of your own food and avoid the high air miles and carbon-producing packaging associated with supermarket produce. As an added benefit, your food will taste better too.
