Feeling helpless about climate change? Here’s what you can do (to save money, too!)
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In the face of overwhelming but completely understandable climate anxiety, it’s time to get proactive. So roll up your sleeves: let’s see what you can do.
Eco-friendly homes
Three years in a row of drought, bushfires, floods, and floods again (again!) have put natural disasters on every Australian’s mind. Recovery from these events is projected to cost Australians a devastating $39 billion per year by 2050.
Ultimately, the best way to safeguard your home in the long-run is to reduce your carbon footprint and go greener with your home. Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Buy local and sustainable. Turn off the lights. (You know the drill).
- You can take it a step further though by comparing energy plans to see if you’re getting an efficient deal. Browse our collection of energy saving guides for inspiration. You can even save energy costs up to 25% by improving your home’s insulation, as this will keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
- You could also diversify your energy plan by adding renewable resources to your bill – most providers will give you the option to make this happen. Even switching to 10-25% GreenPower will only cost an additional $1 per week! You can weigh up the pros and cons of the switch by using our energy cost cruncher calculator.
- If you’re looking to buy property, why not compare green home loan options? For those thinking of renovating a home they already have, consider these eco-friendly renovation tips alongside fire and flood resilience measures.
Investing in an eco-friendly home now will also save you big time later: architect Sarah Lebner estimates that eight-star energy efficient homes use 53% less energy than six star ones.
Eco-friendly banking
Vote with your dollars by switching to a green bank, or employing these four green finance tips. After all, diverting financial support away from carbon-emitting corporations is a surefire way to make a sustainable impact.
You could rethink your budget so that you’re able to make a donation to sustainable nonprofits fighting for climate justice. In fact, going green in your finances can save you $2,300 a year.
Eco-friendly cars
Rising petrol prices have got many Australians rethinking their transport options (like, 221.4 cents per litre is too much, right?)
Instead, you can save money (and the environment) by revising your work commute. But if a car is non-negotiable, go green through either an eco-friendly car loan or switching to an electric vehicle.
Fun fact: literally green cars also have the cheapest car insurance premiums. Go figure!
If you want to learn more about making your lifestyle or your finances green, make sure to check out Mozo’s family finances page.