We’re loving the sunshine in Metro Vancouver, and with it, the opportunity to cut back on electricity. From natural light and warmer temperatures to longer days and outdoor activities, summer is the perfect time to up your green game. To help, we’re sharing 10 eco-friendly tips to inspire you to unplug, get outside, and save energy over the next couple of months.
1. Take advantage of your windows. Turn off the air conditioner and open the window. Turn off the lights and open the curtains. Cost-effective and energy efficient, it’s as easy as it sounds.
2. Turn the page instead of the channel. Instead of watching endless TV shows and movies, exercise your mind with a good book. Why waste good weather curled up on the couch when you can read and enjoy nature at the same time?
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3. Connect in real life, not on the web. Try having a technology free night. Spend time with friends and family, go outside, and take in the beautiful nature BC has to offer.
4. Pitch a tent and ditch the hotel. One way to unplug is to leave the outlets behind. Immerse yourself in the outdoors with a camping trip, enjoying games, activities, and fireside company. Tourism Vancouver shares five places to pitch your tent near Vancouver.
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5. Turn off the ignition. Walking or riding your bike is not only good for the environment, but it will also save you money and give you exercise. If your destination is too far, take public transit or carpool to reduce emissions.
6. Hang-dry in the heat. Clothes dryers are one of the most energy hungry appliances that exist. Regardless of the weather, hang-drying is always the best option for drying your clothes, while the perk of sunshine speeds up the process.
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7. Be water wise. While keeping your lawn green through the dry months is desirable, it also uses up copious amounts of water. Don’t leave your sprinkler running all day; do it early in the morning or later in the night when the least evaporation occurs.
8. Have an eco-friendly picnic. A good meal on a blanket in the park is the epitome of summer. To keep it green, eat with reusable or biodegradable cutlery and plates, and leave the park cleaner than you found it.
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9. Take your workouts outside. Why exercise in a busy gym when you can run along a lake with stunning mountain views? Get off the machine and make the switch from a sweaty room to a breath of fresh air.
10. Perfect the backyard BBQ. Instead of using the oven, grill your food on the BBQ. Not only is it more energy efficient, but it’s also an excuse for friends and family to come together and eat outside.
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How do you unplug in the summer? Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to let us know!
