The need to go ‘green’

Condominium unit owners are seeing more reasons to go green. Saving the environment is now recognized as a highly urgent matter.

The effects of neglecting Mother Nature can be felt around the world given abnormal weather patterns, deteriorating air quality, lack of food supply, and the eradication of small ecosystems which are vital to preserving the balance of life on Earth.

You can help save the Earth with one green gesture at a time. Start in your own units where you can apply pro-environment measures.

1 To cut on energy costs, toss out incandescent light bulbs and replace it with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or compact fluorescent bulbs. Using LEDs will create wonders with your electricity bill. These also cost a fraction of the incandescent light bulbs and have a comparable light output.

2 Use energy star certified appliances. The energy star is a trusted symbol for energy efficiency. This rating was established primarily to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. An energy star certified appliance simply means it is cost efficient and environment friendly.
3 Indoor air quality can pose a problem to condo residents. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified filters may help eliminate small particles of dust and allergens. Or you can repaint your walls with low volatile organic compounds or low-VOC paints. The “fresh-paint smell” is attributed to toxic chemicals which may cause health issues especially for those with asthma and allergies. Low-VOC paints have less impact on the room’s air quality. It can also reduce the concentration of contaminants in the ozone layer as well as in groundwater and landfills.

4 Use sustainable choices when redoing your flooring. Try using reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork and linoleum, which is made of flax seed, linseed oil and other biodegradable materials. Kitchen cabinets can be redone with similar alternatives to wood such as composite veneer, which also has the finishing look of exotic wood. Glass and recyclable bottles can be used in kitchen counters as storage for food and drinks.

You can do your part in saving the environment. Take advantage of a trove of products readily available in the market to minimize your carbon footprint and eradicate airborne toxins. You may also opt to shore up the use of recyclable items in your condo unit.