As the conventional sources of energy gradually exhaust themselves, the need for lifestyle changes that account for the changing rules of the trade of living is rearing its head and demanding our attention. Todays human beings have the largest carbon footprints than any in the history of the world, ever. Living sustainably and energy-efficiently is one of the ways to lift the cloud of uncertainty from our future. Sustainable living incorporates several changes in the way we build our living spaces; changes both subtle and profound. Given below is a list of rudimentary things that we could (and should) alter in our homes:
Make sure there is enough natural light in your home so that you dont have to keep the lights on throughout the day. Burning the midnight oil is okay, though it is better if you finish your work up before the darkness falls; and use the night for what it was made for, i.e. sleep.
You may see huge buildings coming up all round you in todays cosmopolitan cities that have glass facades. It is a pretty basic way to let the suns rays in. In your own homes, you can make use of window-designs and skylights that serve the same purpose. You can slash your energy needs to about 40% of what you would normally use.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOU8c12Gecw
LED
If you still have that tungsten filament bulb lighting your garage, it is high time you replaced it with an LED. If the satisfaction of saving energy does not get your spirits going, it might be useful to remember that this cuts your utility bills too. Use the money you save for better things.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
There are appliances that are efficient, and then there are appliances that are, well, gluttonous. Use the former, and relegate the latter to a place where they belong (a museum would be a good choice). How do you find if an appliance is energy efficient? It is fairly easy for US-manufactured ones: look for the Energy Star service mark on them. Most of the world uses US-made appliances anyways, so this should serve as a general guide, irrespective of where you live.
Solar Panels
Install solar panels on your terrace. At first, photovoltaic cells might appear to be an expensive choice to make, but they will turn out a profit in the long run and be one of the best investments you have ever made.
Ventilation
Many times, you may turn that air-conditioner on not because it is hot inside, but because you find the air inside stale. Renovate your home to allow cross-ventilation to get the airflow going. Air that is still and damp is conducive to mold. Ventilate your home properly to give it an escape route.
http://www.danielsconstructionca.com/how-to-remodel-for-sustainable-livingenergy/
