Green Building | September 27, 2008 |
Greening Up the Old Apartment
There’s no question that renting part of a house is greener than buying a whole one. But renters often lack the ability to make major green changes to their homes, which can limit the reduction in greenhouse gasses.
How to take control? Environmental news site Grist.org provides a few suggestions for the eco-friendly renter looking to get a little eco-friendlier.
Removable low-flow showerheads and faucet attachments can limit water waste, as well as curtailing the carbon emitted by the hot water heater. Keeping the fridge fully stocked will also save on power used for cooling, but keep an eye on perishables, as wasted food is a very bad thing. Electrical heating sources tend to make more efficient use of energy than a gas stovetop or oven, especially if your electricity comes from renewable sources.
That being said, all these things can add up to tough decisions. Some apartments include the cost of heat and hot water in the rent due to older infrastructure, limiting renter incentives to reduce. It might be worthwhile to talk to your landlord about calculating a system to charge you for your actual usage, to align your financial and ideological goals.


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