Using Everyday Technology to Embrace a More Sustainable Lifestyle

The world is facing a serious environmental crisis, and every individual has a responsibility to make changes that will help reduce our impact on the planet. While it may seem overwhelming, it’s easier than ever to live a sustainable lifestyle thanks to everyday technology. In this article, mindful living author Asher Blythe explores some of the ways you can use technology to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle in your everyday routine.

Monitor Energy Consumption With Smart Home Devices

One of the easiest and most efficient ways to reduce your home’s carbon footprint is to monitor your energy consumption. Smart home devices like thermostats, smart power strips, and energy monitoring systems can help you do just that. These devices can be controlled from your smartphone, allowing you to turn off appliances remotely or adjust the temperature of your home while you’re away. PCMag points out that by monitoring your energy usage and finding ways to reduce it, you can significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint

Embrace Online Shopping

One of the biggest advantages of technology is the ability to shop online. While it may seem counterintuitive to reducing your carbon footprint, Earth.org notes that online shopping can actually be more sustainable than traditional shopping. When you shop online, you can reduce the amount of fuel used to transport goods, as well as the quantity of packaging used. Additionally, online shopping platforms often provide more sustainable options, such as organic, locally-sourced, or eco-friendly products.

Digitize Your Paper Records

Another way technology can help you reduce your carbon footprint is by digitizing your records and documents. Most people have a significant amount of paper records and documents, which can take up valuable space and contribute to deforestation. By scanning and digitizing these documents, you can reduce your reliance on paper and make it easier to access your important records. PDFs can also be stored safely and securely in the cloud, reducing the need for physical storage space.

Track Your Water Usage With an App

Water usage is another area where technology can help you make more sustainable choices. Water-saving apps can help you track your water usage and identify areas where you could be wasting water. Some apps even provide tips and guidance on how to reduce your water usage, such as taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and installing low-flow showerheads and toilets.

Bike to Work

Did you know that driving accounts for 87% of carbon emissions? Another way you can reduce your carbon footprint is by walking or biking to work instead of driving. While it may not always be practical, biking can be a fun and efficient way to get around. You can use cycling apps to track your progress, set goals, and find bike-friendly routes. Additionally, many cities offer bike-sharing programs, making it easier than ever to access a bike when you need it.

Make Eco-Friendly Updates to Your Home

If you’re looking to make more significant changes to your sustainability practices, consider making eco-friendly updates to your home. For example, you could install solar panels, upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, or switch to LED light bulbs. You can even install security cameras that run off of small solar panels! And don’t be afraid of the complexity of these technologies. Many of them are simple to troubleshoot on your own with free online resources.

Large green updates should be handled by professionals to ensure things are set up correctly. If you're not sure where to start, take a look at this home management app that connects you with reputable contractors in your area. You can even do a video chat before committing to any sort of service!

Cook Sustainably

Finally, you can use technology to make sustainable choices when it comes to cooking. For example, you can use meal planning apps to reduce food waste, find recipes that use sustainable ingredients, and track the environmental impact of your meals. You can also invest in eco-friendly kitchen appliances, such as composters or induction cooktops, to further reduce your carbon footprint.

Make Going Green Your Profession

Are you getting excited about all of these eco-friendly updates? Perhaps you want to start a business that lets you help other people go green – or at least one that puts these practices to use. There are plenty of options from becoming a beekeeper to setting up an electric car charging station. Find one that speaks to you and get started!

Find Ways to Increase Your Sustainability Practices

Embracing a more sustainable lifestyle is easier than ever thanks to everyday technology. From smart home devices to online shopping platforms to digitizing your paper documents, there are countless opportunities to make more sustainable choices in your everyday routine. By using this technology to your advantage, you can reduce your carbon footprint and become a more responsible and environmentally-conscious individual.

Are you looking for more ways to be mindful? Then check out books by Asher Blythe!