Sustainable Living in Peterborough
As a Peterborough realtor passionate about helping families build generational wealth, I am also interested in maintaining our city's well-being. Peterborough's recent green bin rollout for compostable waste was a fantastic step toward local sustainability, and so I wanted to share some tips & tricks to making your home life greener, too.
Energy Audits
Upgrading your home's energy efficiency is a win-win: it reduces your environmental footprint and saves money on utility bills. An energy audit is a great first step. This professional assessment can analyze your home's current energy usage and identifies areas for improvement. Audits are especially beneficial for older homes, as building and environmental codes have become more stringent in recent years.
The audit process typically involves:
Pre-project Assessment: A thorough examination of your home, resulting in reports on current energy consumption, recommended upgrades, and an EnerGuide label with your home's efficiency rating.
Post-Project Assessment: After you've implemented the suggested upgrades, an assessor returns to verify their effectiveness and update your reports, ensuring your eligibility for potential rebates.
Government initiatives like the Canada Greener Homes Loan offer financial support for energy-efficient upgrades. That being said, going green doesn’t have to involve a government loan…
Kitchen Revamp
Kitchen renovations are a prime opportunity to embrace eco-friendly practices. When selecting appliances, prioritize ENERGY STAR certified models. Look for Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) on cooling systems for an indication of energy efficiency.
Simple fixture replacements can also make a significant impact. Swap traditional bulbs for LED options, which have lifespans up to 15 times longer. Similarly, consider water-efficient faucets.
The materials you choose for renovations matter too. Consider responsibly sourced and durable materials with a long lifespan to minimize environmental impact.
Embrace Secondhand
Secondhand and vintage stores are experiencing a surge in popularity, and it's not just about aesthetics. People are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of manufacturing new items. Additionally, economic considerations are leading many to embrace used furniture and home décor.
Thrifted items, so long as they’re still in good shape, can be refinished or immediately incorporated into the aesthetic of your home. No need to buy new, when you can buy used, hopefully for less.
You can almost always find charming pieces at thrift stores or yard sales, and if your luck is dry, try a simple DIY from YouTube. You’d be amazed by how much you can create from simple items already laying about your home.
Community Gardens
Community gardens are popular in neighbourhoods across Ontario, especially in urban areas where access to personal green space is limited. If your local space allows for it, or if you’re willing to share surplus yard, this can make for an excellent neighbourhood project.
A local community garden is a fantastic way to contribute to a more sustainable future and your community's well-being. A quick online search should reveal community garden initiatives near you, in Peterborough.
Participating in a community garden allows you to learn new skills, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to local food security, all while minimizing your environmental impact.
Thinking of Buying or Selling a Sustainable Home in Peterborough?
As a local realtor with a deep understanding of Peterborough's neighborhoods and a passion for sustainable living, I can help you find a home that meets your standards. If you're interested in exploring sustainable real estate options, I'd be happy to chat and answer any questions you might have. Feel free to reach out to me anytime.
