Is Global Warming Causing Stress Among Young Students?

Climate change is a pressing global issue and has only grown in the public eye. After many decades of suspicions and then confirmations of the negative impacts of humans on the environment, there are ever-increasing environmentalist movements that strive to bring awareness to the issue and try to stop and reverse these destructive forces.

The current generation is likely the most vocal and aware of the grave dangers of climate change. Because of the impact of the current environmentalist movement, increased education, and mainstream entrance, many young students are constantly thinking of ways that they can help the planet.

However, the weight of climate change remains heavy. Many young students report increased levels of anxiety and depression and cite global warming as a cause of their “climate anxiety”. Anxiety, especially climate anxiety, can be very harmful, and therapy or counseling as listed here may be a good option to help address it. Climate anxiety, and anxieties in general, should not be taken lightly.

climate anxiety

Why are young students stressed about the climate?

For people who don’t experience climate anxiety or tend to think about the environment, it can be confusing and distressing to see young folks so distraught. Many people believe that young students don’t have much at all to be worried about, except maybe for school and their social lives, and so they shouldn’t be experiencing anxiety.

However, the truth is that this stress can show up in young people for a number of reasons, and should not be discounted. The feeling of responsibility for global problems many generations in the making can be intense, especially as many of the worse consequences of climate change are getting more obvious and are only expected to increase.

1. This is the first time they are learning about the environmental crisis

For many young students, this could be the first time they’ve heard about global warming or at least the first time they are truly aware of what that means. The crisis feels very imminent and scary to them. Science does not lie to spare feelings, and indeed an understanding of the gravity of the situation may be necessary to fight it.

climate anxiety

2. Their brains are still in development

For any young person who is still developing, emotions may feel more intense. This does not mean that they are any less valid or that the stress is less founded in reality. This simply goes to show just how powerful the feelings of stress and anxiety can be for young students.

3. They perceive the impact on both their immediate and long-term futures

Many adults do not necessarily see the climate crisis as a large issue because the consequences seem as though they will only arise once their lives are over. This is not the case for young students who feel as though they will be personally impacted by the consequences.

What can we do about it?

Global warming and the anxiety and stress that individuals may experience surrounding it are not lost causes. Not only is it possible to develop coping mechanisms for the stress, but also to divert the negative feelings of stress and anxiety towards helpful practices that fight climate change.

1. Learn more about ways we can help in our daily lives

One major way for anyone to cope with anxiety is to learn and input concrete practices to counter that anxiety into their daily life. For climate anxiety, this may look like decreasing plastic waste, taking public transportation, or eating lower on the food chain.

2. Increase activism

Many young students look up to other youth activists, like Greta Thunberg, as role models in the fight against global warming. Allowing young students to participate safely in protests and strikes can help them to feel like they are part of the change. Parents can vocally support policies that aim to reduce the effects of global warming and may implement environmentally friendly practices and habits starting at home.

3. Attend therapy

Climate anxiety is a real aspect of general worry and can contribute to an anxiety disorder. Therapy can help young students establish personal coping mechanisms for their anxieties that can help them feel better in the long run. If anxiety does not seem manageable on one’s own, consider speaking with a therapist or setting an appointment for your child to do so.

good-therapist

Climate anxiety is a powerful emotion for a young student, but it is also a sign that this student is a caring, empathetic person. The awareness, engagement, and leadership visible in the next generation may in fact create a better world, free from global warming, for future generations. One must just remember that taking care of one’s own mental health is just as important as the health of the Earth, and self-care will make a more effective, long-lasting activist in the long run.

Everything You Need to Know About Terpenes and CBD

Cannabinoids and terpenes are two compounds that are becoming increasingly popular in the world of health and wellness. But what do we really know about them?

Well, we do know that both compounds have powerful properties that can benefit our bodies, but many people don’t really understand how these components interact with each other to bring about positive results.

Terpenes and CBD

In this article, we’ll dive into what terpenes are and how they work together with CBD. Read on to learn everything you need to know about terpenes and CBD.

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants, fruits, and herbs that give each plant its unique scent and flavor. They are responsible for a plant’s essential oil production, as well as for the way it smells and tastes.

Terpenes also contain medicinal properties and have been known to provide anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and stress relief benefits. As a result of their diverse nature, terpenes can be used to create products such as perfumes, lotions, and even food additives.

By leveraging their various beneficial qualities, terpenes offer consumers a safe and natural way to enhance their health and well-being.

Terpenes and CBD

Terpenes have been found to be critical components in the production and efficacy of CBD products. Terpenes interact with cannabidiol (CBD), the active ingredient in CBD products, to produce a wider range of therapeutic effects.

Not only do terpenes help enhance the medicinal effects of CBD, but they also alter its taste and smell so users can enjoy a more pleasant experience. The combination of terpenes and CBD allows users to customize their desired effect, varying from calming and soothing peace to alertness and focus.

Together, terpenes and CBD create an effective synergistic relationship that can be utilized for various health benefits.

Steam distillation of terpenes

Terpenes are traditionally distilled using steam. During the process, the plant material is placed in a chamber and heated by steaming hot air. The steam carries the terpenes from the plant material into the distillation chamber, where it is separated from other compounds like waxes and oils.

After distillation, terpenes can be used to create a variety of products, including natural fragrances, lotions, and even food additives.

However, when you derive live resin terpenes with steam, it uses a lot of energy, and this is because of the inherent large energy cost to maintain a column of steam. Then there are the issues around the fact that steam distillation destroys the light end of the live resin’s terpene profile.

The cryogenic distillation process

An alternative to the steam distillation process is cryogenic distillation. With this method, plant material is immersed in a liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide bath, which freezes and separates the terpenes from other molecules. Cryogenic distillation allows for greater control over the extraction process and can yield higher purity levels than steam distillation, while capturing the entire terpene profile.

The innovative company, Alpine Vapor Hemp, utilizes a proprietary cryogenic distillation process that uses liquid nitrogen and pressure to distill terpenes from live resin. By only using the harvested flower, and never trim material, from craft cannabis farms in California to create live resin, they create full profile true-to-strain terpenes.  These terpenes are only available on a  seasonal basis and are dependent on the specific microclimate at the cannabis farm that year.

By utilizing Cryogenic Distillation, the entire terpene profile of the the live resin strain is preserved and captured, versus steam which destroys and damages the light end of the terpene profile (the profile that captures the floral and fruit scent qualities of the terpenes).

In the same way that a vineyard’s vintage quality is dependent on matching grapes to the microclimate and soil, cannabis farms can take the same approach so that they produce the finest cannabis that specifically matched by strain to the local conditions.

Advantages of using liquid nitrogen

Liquid nitrogen is the less valuable component and often a byproduct from the manufacture of liquid oxygen, used in hospitals and other industrial processes, but even the actual condensing of air to a liquid is also very energy efficient compared to steam. This is due to the fact that liquid nitrogen makes up the bulk of the atmosphere and requires less work to separate, and the waste heat created from its compression can be used for other purposes thereby reducing the use of energy.  Liquid nitrogen is also efficient to store when not needed, versus steam which requires constant energy input to maintain its effective temperature.

Additionally, its critical temperature storage point makes it much more efficient than steam distillation, which requires time and energy to get to critical temperature. as it requires less energy and time to achieve a result. This makes cryogenic distillation an ideal method for capturing and preserving full terpene profiles from live resin extracts and ensuring higher levels of quality and purity.

Finally, because liquid nitrogen is non-flammable and non-toxic, it is considered one of the safest methods for extracting terpenes from cannabis plants. This also means that there are no worries about contamination or emissions involved in this process.

How are the live resin terpenes combined with CBD?

After the terpenes have been extracted from the live resin, they can then be combined with CBD isolate or full-spectrum CBD oil. This allows users to customize their desired effects and create a more balanced therapeutic experience.

The combination of terpenes and CBD also allows users to enjoy a wider range of health benefits, such as improved sleep, stress relief, enhanced focus, and even pain relief.

tips to buy CBD products online

How do you know if you’re buying high-quality CBD products?

When it comes to buying high-quality CBD products, it’s important to make sure that you’re getting your terpenes from a reliable source. Make sure to check the lab test results and look for proof that the product is made with live resin extracts and is free from heavy metals, pesticides, solvents, and other impurities.

You should also be aware of any added flavors or additives, as these can mask the true effects of the terpene profile and even introduce unwanted side effects. A good way to ensure quality is to buy from a reputable manufacturer that uses cryogenic distillation to extract their terpenes.

Final thoughts

With a greater understanding of the properties and effects that terpenes and CBD can have on our bodies, we can make informed decisions about how to best incorporate them into our lives for optimal health and well-being.

8 Eco-friendly Gift Ideas For Couples This New Year

This New Year, why not surprise your partner with an eco-friendly gift? Going green is a great way to do something meaningful and lasting for our planet, and it also shows that you care about your partner’s values. Eco-friendly gifts come in all shapes and styles, so you can find something special for your loved one without buying new items. Consider reusing products, like buying vintage or recycled jewelry and accessories or purchasing upcycled decor or furniture.

small things to help the environment

You can also opt for materials made from natural sources instead of petroleum-based synthetics like bamboo sheets or paper products made from post-consumer waste. On the practical level, giving renewable energy-sourced power sources like reusable solar batteries can help keep your significant other charged up while doing their part to reduce carbon emissions. Whatever you decide on, gifting an eco-friendly item will be appreciated by your partner and Mother Nature alike! Keep reading to learn more about eco-friendly gifts and how they can make a big difference this New Year!

Here are some eco-friendly gifts for couples to explore:

1. Reusable Water Bottles

We all know that plastic water bottles are terrible for the environment. Helping couples kickstart their journey towards an eco-friendly lifestyle starts by gifting them reusable water bottles! Reusable water bottles can come in many different materials, such as stainless steel, glass, bamboo, or even silicone. Not only do they look great, but they’re also convenient and sustainable! Many companies even offer personalization options so each couple can have their own unique set of reusable water bottles.

2. Cannabis Gummies

This New Year, cannabis-infused edibles are an exciting option for couples who want to give each other something special. Gummies offer a discreet way to enjoy cannabis-infused products and feature consistent doses that make it easier for you and your significant other to pace yourselves. These delicious gummies come in different flavors and dosages, making them perfect for all occasions. Whether you are gifting a seasoned pro or someone who is trying these treats out for the first time, there’s no reason to miss out on this unique new opportunity.

HHC Gummies are the perfect way to show your eco-friendly side. They come in an assortment of flavors for everyone to enjoy without guilt! Due to their packaging-free nature, cannabis gummies are 100% biodegradable and free from preservatives, making an excellent choice for those looking to do their part in protecting the environment.

So this New Year, why not make sure your celebrations go off with a bang with some delicious and discrete kratom gummies?

3. Clay Statues

Clay statues may be a great option if you’re looking for the perfect eco-friendly gift this new year. People have been making clay sculptures for thousands of years and today’s process for creating these unique items involves minimal energy consumption, thus limiting the environmental impact of their production. Plus, clay statues can last generations and require no additional energy to maintain them, making clay a great material to give as a new year’s gift to someone special (or even to yourself).

Each statue is unique in its design and texture, giving it character and charm that other materials can’t replicate. Clay statuettes are an excellent way to commemorate special occasions without damaging the environment or your wallet.

4. Organic Cotton Beddings

Another tremendous eco-friendly gift idea is organic cotton bedding! Organic cotton is grown without harsh chemicals or pesticides, making it much better for the environment than traditional bedding made from synthetic materials. Organic cotton beddings also tend to be much softer and more comfortable than synthetic counterparts. Plus, they come in various colors and styles, so you can find something that matches every couple’s style!

eco friendly gifts for couples

5. Organic Lingerie

Organic lingerie takes a classic intimate gift to the next level by blending sensuality with sustainability. Made from organic fibers like cotton, hemp, or bamboo, these pieces offer a softer, chemical-free touch against the skin, enhancing comfort while reducing environmental impact.

Choosing organic lingerie as a New Year’s gift sends a powerful message—it shows that you care about your partner’s well-being as well as the health of our planet. Not only will you both feel good wearing it, but you’ll also feel good about making a responsible, eco-friendly choice.

6. Plants and Seeds

This New Year, a great gift idea for couples is to give plants and seeds as a symbol of love and growth. Plants and seeds offer the perfect way to represent the couple’s shared journey in the coming year. They add a unique touch to the home — flowers for bright, blooming moments or succulents for infinite resilience — providing aesthetic and practical value. Plants are also known to have incredible therapeutic effects making them a significant present from partners to each other such that they can tend to these little reminders of their bond throughout the year.

7. Compost Bin

This New Year is a great time to look for sustainable gifts, and what better way to do that than with a compost bin?

Composting is an easy and green way to reduce landfill waste and help the environment by turning food scraps into nutrient-rich soil. Composting encourages a balanced cycle of organic matter, which helps build healthy, “living” soils for gardening. It’s also great for plants because it helps replenish nitrogen and potassium levels, opens up soil structure, and buffers pH. People looking for ways to help the environment can try getting a compost bin as a gift or even give one as an excellent present!

liquid fertilizer

They are exceedingly beneficial to the planet and can also be aesthetically pleasing when cheerfully placed in gardens or on balconies. So this New Year, let’s spread joy while helping the environment with eco-friendly gifts like compost bins!

8. Energy Saving Appliances

A great way to help couples save money and be more eco-friendly is by giving them energy-saving appliances. This could be anything from an energy-efficient washer/dryer set to LED light bulbs or solar panels! Plus, many energy-saving appliances come with tax incentives, making them even more attractive gifts! By investing in energy-saving appliances now, couples can save money on their electricity bills while still doing their part to reduce their carbon footprint.

energy efficient home

Conclusion

This new year has plenty of unique eco-friendly gift ideas that will make perfect gifts for any couple! From reusable water bottles to compost bins to energy-saving appliances, these sustainable gifts will bring joy and help couples on their journey towards living a more eco-friendly lifestyle. So why not start 2023 on a green foot by giving the special people in your life some thoughtful yet practical gifts this holiday season?

Happy shopping!

Create a Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Home on a Budget

In the US, the typical home and family spend an average minimum of $2,200 on energy costs per year, according to the US Department of Energy. Understandably, homeowners are aiming to cut costs and seeking to save oodles of money down the road. With that being the case, it isn’t surprising to find that more and more people are turning to smart home technology. What about those that can’t exactly afford all the tech-led bells and whistles, however? Read on to know how to create an energy-efficient home on a budget:

1. Think Long-Term Package

Instead of looking at the things to put in a home, it’s smart to consider the entirety of the home itself—from conceptual plans to layouts and building materials. Planning and choosing a home that is affordable and fashioned to be conducive to a sustainable and energy-efficient build will save you thousands of dollars in the future.

sustainable-habits-for-ecofriendly-home

For example, you can try living in a mobile home. Lenders and lending institutions like mobile and manufactured homes so you won’t have trouble securing a loan. These types of homes come in a wide gamut of sustainable materials to choose from like recycled steel. So it provides a good marriage between budgets and sustainability.

2. Enforcing Helpful Practices

Beyond having a home that’s built to be conducive for sustainability and energy-efficiency, you need to take a long hard look at the habits of the people in the home. When you’re on a budget, fancy things like smart thermostats can be a tad out of reach. So what can you do? You can try enforcing helpful practices.

eco-friendly-business-practices

For example, lowering the water heating temperature can lower your energy consumption by 22% annually. Other good practices are sealing any air leaks so you can avoid any excessive use of heating. Not only will these help you save money but they’ll help keep everyone on the same page when it comes to being energy-efficient. But if it surpasses your budget, taking SMS loans in Sweden can be an ideal option to cover for the extra cost. By taking out this micro loan, you will be able to pay your bills while enforcing helpful habits to minimize your spending.

3. Seek Sustainable Technology

All the savings you get from a well-built home and sustainable practices will eventually give you more options. Sustainable technology can help boost your home’s energy efficiency. While tech like solar panels can be expensive, it is always worth noting that there are Federal Tax Credit plans that allow homeowners to claim at least 30% of installation costs, according to NerdWallet. Other good options are biogas digesters and active recycling posts on the property.

solar-powered-home

When it comes to creating a sustainable and energy-efficient home, there are always a lot of options to choose from. It is all a matter of doing the right research to find which solutions help you best with the budget that you presently have. Always remember that whatever you spend now toward sustainability will eventually mean triple in savings and more down the line.

Recommended Reading:

How to improve home energy efficiency

Energy efficiency guide for homeowners

Biomass Energy and Sustainability

Biomass energy systems offer significant possibilities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions due to their immense potential to replace fossil fuels in energy production. Biomass reduces emissions and enhances carbon sequestration since short-rotation crops or forests established on abandoned agricultural land accumulate carbon in the soil. Biomass energy usually provides an irreversible mitigation effect by reducing carbon dioxide at source, but it may emit more carbon per unit of energy than fossil fuels unless biomass fuels are produced in a sustainable manner.

Biomass resources can play a major role in reducing the reliance on fossil fuels by making use of thermo-chemical conversion technologies. In addition, the increased utilization of biomass-based fuels will be instrumental in safeguarding the environment, generation of new job opportunities, sustainable development and health improvements in rural areas.

biomass-sustainability

The development of efficient biomass handling technology, improvement of agro-forestry systems and establishment of small and large-scale biomass-based power plants can play a major role in sustainable development of rural as well as urban areas. Biomass energy could also aid in modernizing the agricultural economy and creating significant job opportunities.

Harvesting practices remove only a small portion of branches and tops leaving sufficient biomass to conserve organic matter and nutrients. Moreover, the ash obtained after combustion of biomass compensates for nutrient losses by fertilizing the soil periodically in natural forests as well as fields.

The impact of forest biomass utilization on the ecology and biodiversity has been found to be insignificant. Infact, forest residues are environmentally beneficial because of their potential to replace fossil fuels as an energy source.

A quick glance at popular biomass resources

A quick glance at popular biomass resources

Plantation of energy crops on abandoned agricultural land will lead to an increase in species diversity. The creation of structurally and species diverse forests helps in reducing the impacts of insects, diseases and weeds. Similarly the artificial creation of diversity is essential when genetically modified or genetically identical species are being planted.

Short-rotation crops give higher yields than forests so smaller tracts are needed to produce biomass which results in the reduction of area under intensive forest management. An intelligent approach in forest management will go a long way in the realization of sustainability goals.

Improvements in agricultural practices promises to increased biomass yields, reductions in cultivation costs, and improved environmental quality. Extensive research in the fields of plant genetics, analytical techniques, remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) will immensely help in increasing the energy potential of biomass feedstock.

A large amount of energy is expended in the cultivation and processing of crops like sugarcane, coconut, and rice which can met by utilizing energy-rich residues for electricity production. The integration of biomass-fueled gasifiers in coal-fired power stations would be advantageous in terms of improved flexibility in response to fluctuations in biomass availability and lower investment costs. The growth of the biomass energy industry can also be achieved by laying more stress on green power marketing.

Recommended Reading: Exploring Synergy Between Bioenergy and Solar Power Systems

The Advantages of Eco-Friendly Energy Sources

You’ve heard all about it before: global warming and pollution have been steadily impacting our planet little by little each year. Sure, we’ve all probably been asked to write an essay about how to help solve our environmental problems, but do we really live our lives as sustainably as we should?

With all the talks about climate change, one of the most significant changes consumers can make is to switch to renewable energy. True enough, its growing popularity has made it the fastest-growing energy source in the country. You might be thinking, “Does the source of my electricity really matter?” The answer is a resounding yes! To prove it to you, we’ve rounded up the advantages of eco-friendly energy sources down below.

1. It Reduces Greenhouse Gases

Using traditional energy creates a huge environmental impact on air, water, and land resources. Currently, the world mainly produces electricity through coal and gas—two of the biggest contributors to the rising levels of CO2 on the planet.

solar-energy-diy

The accumulated greenhouse gas is responsible for the greenhouse effect, increasing the earth’s average surface temperature. Additionally, this temperature change disrupts the ecosystem,  causing more plant and animal species to decline in number, ultimately affecting our biodiversity.

In contrast, the use of renewable energy (e.g., solar, geothermal, biomass) does not require burning fossil fuels. Thus, it drives down carbon emission and significantly reduces the total amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

2. It Gets Cheaper Every Year

The growing popularity of eco-friendly energy sources has resulted in a lot of positive changes for the economy. For instance, at least two-thirds of the world now offer clean energy as a cheaper alternative to fossil fuels.

To add to that, Eligo Energy’s report discovered that 65% of Americans are willing to pay for green electricity despite it being more expensive. Due to the increased investments in new technology and government subsidies, renewable energy is steadily becoming more affordable.

Moreover, renewables, like solar and wind energy, do not have price hikes. The same cannot be said for fossil fuels which become more expensive over time. Finite resources also have extreme market volatility, something that companies have no control over. Effective policies can be done easier around renewable energy, as it offers long-term stability in the market.

3. It’s Beneficial to Your Health

It’s no secret that factories powered by coal produce dark smoke that rises to the sky. What’s worse, this smoke contains traces of mercury, arsenic, and sulfur dioxide—all toxic pollutants that pose many dangers to public health.

The smog and air pollution make us more vulnerable to respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer. WHO even estimated that seven million lives are lost each year due to air pollution.

air-pollution-repurcussions

Choosing to make use of renewables will definitely be the healthier option, as it decreases the need for more coal to be burned. Green energy answers the problem of air pollution and will pave the way for improved air quality, saving millions of lives worldwide.

4. It Saves a Lot of Water

While the earth is mainly made up of water, only a very few percent of that is usable for us humans. Therefore, water is a precious commodity we should conserve. However, power plants use hundreds of thousands of gallons of water just to generate electricity. Likewise,  the extraction and production of fossil fuels rely on a lot of water too.

drone-wind-farms

Switching to green electricity greatly helps in conserving water. For instance, wind and solar energy plants barely need water to operate; the occasional washing of solar panels and turbine planes are most probably the only times you’ll ever need water. Indeed, renewable energy sources are a long-term water-saving solution.

5. It Provides Job Opportunities

As more companies and governments venture into increasing the accessibility of green energy, more jobs have been opened to workers around the globe. In fact, these opportunities are also available for those without college degrees! Building factories, solar panels, and wind turbines are great examples of the many jobs high in demand on the market right now.

solar-rebates-faqs

There is also a growing need for specialists and experts. Engineers, financial analysts, renewable energy consultants, and even farmers are all needed to study the endless possibilities of clean energy for different industries.

Automakers, for example, have invested in renewables to create electric-powered vehicles. Apart from electrical and mechanical engineers, they will have to hire more assembly line workers. As these newer cars become more efficient, it won’t be soon enough for consumers to choose them over the traditional gas-fueled vehicles.

Conclusion

As climate change takes a toll on the world, we have to make significant changes to our ways before it’s too late. Fortunately, our technologies have advanced enough to be able to generate electricity from eco-friendly sources.

With all the advantages it brings, green energy is predicted to run the world a few decades from now. Indeed, renewables are the energy of the future, and it’s high time for you to make the right switch.

4 Ways for Finding the Most Affordable Electricity Supplier

Have you recently checked out your energy tariffs? If not, then you need to be paying more attention to it now. Keep in mind that your energy bill doesn’t merely indicate or show how much energy you consume.

Take note that your postcode plays an essential role in tracking down how much you pay. According to your region, energy providers charge different rates, although they’re offering the same service. Even if there’s hardly anything you can do about price variations, you can look for the most affordable electricity provider in your region and ensure you are on the optimal tariff.

To save on your energy bill, it might be time to switch to a new supplier. For a little help, here’s how you can find one.

1. Compare Energy Prices

To analyze all the tariffs for every region as well as the payment method to discover the most inexpensive electricity supplier near you, you can leverage many online services such as the Compare Texas Electricity Rates, Prices & Plans at Eligo Energy.

To start, you need to register online your postcode or zipcode and information about your usage, tariff, and energy supplier. Once you’re done, you can compare deals throughout the market and get the best offer possible.

Keep in mind that aside from ensuring you are on the best available energy deal, you can keep electricity and gas bills to a minimum by making sure that your home is energy efficient. There are short-term measures to save energy that includes;

  • Using low-consumption bulbs.
  • Lowering down your thermostat by one degree.
  • When using an electric kettle, it is wise only to heat as much water.
  • Choose draught-proof doors and windows to cut down heat loss.
  • Turn off standby electrical items.

What’s more, there are long-term measures to save energy that includes;

  • Installing a condensing boiler.
  • Proper insulation.
  • Installing cavity wall insulation.
  • Purchasing energy-efficient electrical items.

2. Switching Incentives and Refer-A-Friend

A lot of energy providers are now presenting or providing financial rewards for shifting to them. And it includes refer-a-friend deals. So, if you are invited to switch energy providers through a refer-a-friend scheme, ensure you check and examine the following:

  • Customer service
  • Exit fees
  • Attached conditions to the switching incentive
  • Price compared to other deals
  • Price of the tariff

3. Variable Vs. Fixed Energy Tariffs

More often than not, energy deals arrive in two types: variable and fixed. The question now is, which is best for you? Variable tariffs can alter in price every time your energy provider changes its rates. The default tariff of your supplier will typically be a variable deal.

That said, if you are committed to an energy provider for a couple of years, or did not change after your fixed tariff ended, it is likely that you are on its default tariff. Take note that default tariffs are liable to a price cap, which is a cap on the price for every energy unit, not on your total bill.

Even so, a few small energy suppliers provide variable tariffs that are more affordable compared to large suppliers. Although they can alter their rates too, these suppliers are surely worth considering, especially if you want to pay less without a fixed contract.

On the other hand, fixed tariffs settle the amount you pay for every energy unit you consume for the particular period. Meaning, you know the price beforehand, and it will not increase throughout the contract period. Therefore, if the energy provider increases its prices, yours won’t. However, you will not benefit if the prices decrease, either.

Which is more affordable between the two? Well, the most inexpensive deals out there tend to be a combination of variable and fixed. As such, it is not easy to choose between the two.

4. Avoiding Exit Fees

Before you even decide to change the energy provider, be sure to check the agreements or terms of your deal. If you choose to withdraw a fixed tariff before your contract ends, you might have to pay an exit fee.

However, do not let this dismay you because not all fixed-term deals include exit fees. So, if you switch, better choose one without exit fees. Also, your energy provider cannot charge an exit fee if you shift provider in the last forty-nine days of your term. Moreover, if you are moving home, you don’t need to pay exit fees.

Takeaway

If you have switched energy providers, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your bills are accurate. You can send your meter readings to your provider to ensure you are being billed only for what you consume. Aside from this, you can ask for a refund if you are unduly in credit.

Also, be sure to determine the end date of your fixed-term tariff before you switch to a new deal so that you won’t be moved to a default tariff.

Can We Create Zero Waste?

A zero waste society is something we all agree would be ideal. Imagine if everything used could be turned into a new product or go back into the earth. Several companies are moving their businesses into biodegradable containers, which means that maybe we can rethink landfills. Even Coca-Cola has said that by 2025, their bottles will be compostable, which could be a gamechanger.

biodegradable-containers

How Should We Change our Habits?

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in 2018, the average American produced 4.9lbs of waste per day. This number might not seem that high, however, calculate that figure for all of the US, and you are now looking at 292.4m tons. This number helps us understand the society we live in and the changes needed.

Why Recycling isn’t the Answer?

Most people think, “I’ve used a bottle, recycled it, and now I’ve done my part.” There’s a lot more to this, though. How was that bottle made? Plastics, as we know them, harm our environment. Zero waste means we don’t think about recycling. The product is simply gone or used.

Many of us believe that all plastic is recycled, and if that is the case, we will reach zero wastage. However, when we look closer, only a small percentage of these recycled products is used to create a new product. In other words, this is good for now, and in the future, we will be more resourceful.

The EPA’s strategy begins with the product life cycle. If each company considered how their product would be used and waste reduction, we could reach a zero wastage time sooner. Companies should therefore create either biodegradable or reusable packaging.

What is Composting?

Landfills require a lot of space and emit methane gasses into the air. Composting decreases wastage and aids plant growth. Composting requires you to take food scraps, which used to be considered garbage and turn them into a product.

benefits-composting

Vegetable scraps are ideal for composting as they can break down quite quickly. Using a three-stage composting bin, you can create rich soil, which is used as a fertilizer. If you don’t own a garden, there are often organizations that will request homemade compost.

Ways to Reach a Waste-free Society

As a consumer, we shouldn’t be using one-time plastic bags. We could opt for reusable material bags. Bring our coffee mugs when we want coffee on the go. When you buy takeout, have handy cutlery already on you, preventing you from using more plastic.

When you do your weekly food shopping, be mindful of what you will consume. By buying the right amount, you have already helped save the planet. If you find you bought too many vegetables, find a way to use them and freeze them for a future meal.

Our society makes us think that once we are seen in a clothing outfit, it’s old. T-shirts last for some time, and you don’t always need to replace mildly worn clothes. If the t-shirt is no longer “your style,” instead of throwing it away, donate it or give it to a friend. This will ensure it lives a bit longer. All these little changes can bring us toward a zero wastage life. There are many ways we can reach zero wastage. For more information, read more.

15 Simple Ways You and Your Family Can Save the Planet

Life, the miracle of the universe, appeared about 4 billion years ago, and we, humans – only 200,000 years ago. But we have already succeeded in destroying the balance that is so important for the life on Earth. What do we actually know about life on Earth? The tenth part? Or maybe the hundredth? Earth is a real miracle. Life remains a mystery.

Trees grow towards the sun, which feeds their foliage. Animals are adapted to their pastures, and their pastures are adapted to them. As a result, everyone wins. Animals satisfy hunger, and plants flourish again. In this great life journey on Earth, each species has a particular function and takes a certain place. There are no useless creatures. They are all balanced.

And Homo sapiens – a man of sense – enters the arena of history. He received a fabulous inheritance that the Earth has carefully preserved for 4 billion years. He is only 200,000 years old, but he has already changed the face of the world. Despite his vulnerability, he captured all the habitats and conquered the territory like no other species before him. Today, life – our life – is only a link in the chain of countless lives following one another on Earth for 4 billion years.

For a long time, the relationship between people and the planet were fairly balanced and resembled a natural and equal union. Now, we rarely think about global issues, being lost in everyday concerns. Meanwhile, we are on the verge of a disaster. Thanks to the achievements of science and technology, people learned to satisfy their needs, but some inventions brought us much more harm than good. We are killing our planet gradually but purposefully.

Planting more trees and vegetation will go a long way in reducing heat in urban settings.

Only by changing your habits quite a bit, you and your loved ones can make the world cleaner and safer. These 15 simple tips do not require you either time or extra effort, but can make a difference in saving the world:

  1. Make the most of natural ambient light. Turn off the light in the room or the computer monitor when you do not need it. And do not forget about the chargers in the appliance receptacle!
  2. Teach yourself to turn off the water at a time when you do not need it – for example, while brushing your teeth or rubbing the pan with a detergent. On average, according to statistics, 5-10 liters of water (depending on pressure) flows out of the tap per minute. Also, reduce the time spent in the shower for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Replace incandescent bulbs with LED lights: they save energy and last longer.
  4. Change to a bike. It is cool, fast, and comfortable. Having tried only once, you no longer want to get on the “hot bus” or spend time stuck in traffic jams. In addition, a bicycle is an excellent vehicle as it does not pollute the air with dangerous gases.
  5. Use phosphate-free detergents. On the Internet, there are many resources offering ecological household chemicals.
  6. Buy less plastic bags, go to the store with your eco-bag.
  7. Replace plastic with paper and glass. If you cannot do without disposable tableware – for example, when going on a picnic – use paper plates and cups rather than plastic ones. Purified water from under sink reverse osmosis system is the best alternative of plastic bottled water.
  8. Choose cosmetics and chemicals especially carefully. You should give preference to products that have not been tested on animals and do not adversely affect the environment at different stages of production.
  9. Though it is as simple as ABC but very effective – try to bring plastic, glass, and paper for recycling.
  10. Bring batteries to special shops and institutions because this is a dangerous and very toxic type of waste.
  11. Refuse semi-finished products. Experts say that today, the manufacture of these products is fully controlled by monopoly companies that abuse antibiotics, overload the ecosystem, and apply the principles of intensive management for their own profit. Of course, in such conditions, quality suffers. Homemade food is much better. Do not know how to cook? A dating site may be helpful.
  12. Buy local food – the one that is made in your area. This food undergoes less chemical treatment which is sometimes used for long-term transportation.
  13. Use water filters. In this case, you do not need to spend money on bottled drinking water. Thus, you will not only save your family budget but also reduce the environmental impact caused by the production and transportation of plastic bottles.
  14. Plant flowers on window sills and trees in the courtyards. Do not let anyone cut down green spaces near your house.
  15. Support environmental organizations and encourage your family to do it.

“Orbiting Earth, I saw how beautiful our planet is. People, let us preserve and increase this beauty, not destroy it!”

– Yuri Gagarin

The Ultimate Guide To Accessorizing Your Home

Creating the perfect oasis in your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right accessories, you can instantly transform any space into the stylish and cozy place of your dreams.

Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to Accessorizing Your Home – where we’ll guide you in finding the pieces that will make your home look like a million bucks without breaking the bank.

How To Accessorize Your Home

What’s accessorizing, and why accessorize your dwelling?

Accessorizing means adding complementary color, texture, and design elements to a space to enhance its appearance and create a unique style. Accessories are often distinguished from furniture by their smaller size and lower price point, allowing you to replace or update them more frequently.

So why practice accessorizing in the first place? The reason for doing that is that it can add a personalized touch to any room, allowing you to showcase your creativity and taste. Besides, you can create visual interest, draw attention to certain features of a room, and make a small room appear larger. From using VistaCreate’s collage feature–click the link to learn more https://create.vista.com/create/collage/–to scavenging flea markets, accessorizing will empower you to inject life and color into an otherwise dull or outdated room.

Getting Started

1. Budgeting

When accessorizing your dwelling, it’s essential to determine your budget beforehand. It will help ensure you don’t go overboard and spend more than you can afford. Consider the type of look you’re trying to achieve and the accessories cost before making any purchases.

2. Identifying existing themes

Next, consider the space’s existing themes and color schemes to ensure that any accessories you choose will complement rather than clash with the existing décor. Take note of any patterns or motifs in the room and use these as inspiration for selecting accessories.

Living Room

  • Wall décor

Wall décor is an essential element of any living room. Consider adding a gallery wall filled with framed art or photographs, or try displaying some exciting objects such as vintage mirrors or maps. An eclectic mix of wall décor can bring a sense of charm and personality to the room.

  • Curtains and Window Treatments

Curtains and window treatments are a great way to add color and texture to a room. Consider the color of the walls and furniture when selecting a fabric for curtains to ensure that it complements the existing décor. Remember that window treatments don’t just add aesthetic value but also help regulate the room’s temperature.

  • Furniture

When selecting furniture for your living room, look for comfortable and stylish pieces. Keep in mind the size and shape of the room and how much seating is needed. If you’re looking to add a punch of color to the room, consider an upholstered or patterned armchair.

Kitchen

  • Countertop Basics

Countertops are a building block of any kitchen and can often make or break the room’s look. Consider adding colorful towels and cookbooks to give the countertops a more inviting feel while providing some handy kitchen accessories. A bowl of fresh fruit or vegetables can also add color and warmth.

redesign kitchen units in ecofriendly manner

  • Table Settings

Table settings are an excellent opportunity to show off your style. Add colorful placemats or a bright centerpiece to the table for visual interest. Candles and flowers can also add a touch of class and elegance to mealtime.

Bedroom

  • Wall Art

Wall art can instantly bring a sense of life and vibrancy to a bedroom. Consider leaning a large artwork above the bed for an impressive centerpiece, or add some smaller pieces for a more eclectic look. Wall art is also an opportunity to showcase your peculiar style and tastes.

  • Storage Solutions

Storage solutions such as bookcases, dressers, and armories can help minimize clutter and maximize space in any bedroom. Look for functional and aesthetically pleasing pieces, choosing materials such as wood or metal for a timeless look that will stand the test of time.

Bathroom

  • Towels, Rugs, and Accessories

Towels, rugs, and accessories are a great way to bring color and character to the bathroom. Consider adding bright towels and rugs in patterns or colors that complement the existing décor of the restroom for an eye-catching display. Things like soap dispensers, candles, or plants will add a touch of life to the space.

  • Mirrors and Display Cabinet

A mirror is one of the most necessary bathroom essentials because it adds to the space’s practicality and aesthetics. Add a wall-mounted mirror for a bold statement piece or an ornate framed mirror for an elegant touch. You can also use a display cabinet or shelf to store toiletries and other items.

bathroom-shower

 

Other Rooms

Outdoor Accessories

When accessorizing your outdoor space, consider its purpose. Include colorful furniture, such as lounge chairs or Adirondack chairs for seating. For lighting, use string lights or tiki torches for a festive feel. Plants and flowers are also excellent for adding a touch of life and color to any outdoor space.

Conclusion

The possibilities for accessorizing your home are truly endless. Whether you want to focus on the inner details or create a bold statement, remember that the right accessories can bring personality and pizzazz to any space. Take your time, find the pieces that speak to you, and make your house feel like home.

Now that you’ve read this guide, go forth and create the space of your dreams!