Sustainable urban developmentWhile many of us would like to do more to help conserve energy and resources, it’s often easier said than done. From getting rid of older home appliances, to choosing a car that makes driving to work in the morning more efficient, here are five quick and easy tips to help contribute to the health of the environment:

1. Kiss old appliances goodbye. Some of the biggest energy guzzlers in the home are older appliances. Consider replacing dated refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, washers, and dryers with newer, energy efficient models.

2. Control your home environment. Using a programmable thermostat can help keep home energy use down. For example, try setting your thermostat to 20°C during cold winter days and lowering it to 18°C at night when sleeping.

3. Eat for the planet. Consider switching up your family’s diet to include up to 25 per cent protein-packed vegetables like legumes, nuts, and seeds. Beyond helping the environment, this diet change can boost your health too.

4. Drive fuel-efficient technology. Most car manufacturers are jumping on the electric vehicle trend, but some are also incorporating fuel-efficient technology into their regular models. For example, most General Motors models, including the Cadillac XT5 and Chevy Malibu, boast start/stop technology, which temporarily turns off your engine when you’re at a full stop. Keeping the system activated can improve your fuel economy, reduce fuel emissions, and save you some cash.

5. Reduce water consumption. Using efficient shower heads and refraining from running the water while doing the dishes or brushing your teeth can help save over 750 litres of water per month.

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