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1:00 AM 20th January 2024
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5 Simple Gadgets To Help Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

 

Picture by freepik
Picture by freepik
In an era when the need for environmental sustainability is more pressing than ever, adopting an eco-conscious lifestyle has become a top priority for many. Embracing practices that reduce our ecological footprint requires not only behavioral changes but also the integration of tools and gadgets that promote sustainability. Here, we present five essential gadgets that can help you live a more eco-conscious life.

1. Solar Panels

Solar panels are increasingly popular among eco-conscious individuals due to their ability to generate clean and renewable energy. By harnessing the power of the sun, solar panels can significantly reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources, lowering both your carbon footprint and energy bills.

Solar panels can be installed on a roof, out of sight, on your balcony, or in a backyard. Either way, solar panels can help your household make a substantial impact on the environment while enjoying the benefits of renewable energy.

Compact solar panels are a convenient way to help you reduce your carbon footprint on the go. These devices are often foldable or rollable, for easy storage in a backpack or a car, and can be used to charge a wide range of devices, from smartphones to portable speakers. They are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone on the move.

Photo by freepik
Photo by freepik
2. “HR Bank”

In a world heavily reliant on electronic devices, staying powered up is of utmost importance. The "HR Bank," from Lithuanian startup Tukas EV, is a device that resembles a classic exercise bike, which can generate from 50 to 300W/h of electricity by pedaling. What makes the "HR Bank" truly remarkable is its ability to store this energy in a 2 kWh battery, capable of keeping the lights on for an entire week. The HR Bank can also store energy produced by other sources, like solar panels, generators, wind power, or the electrical grid.

One area where the “HR Bank” truly shines is in post-disaster scenarios. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, storms, and floods can leave entire communities without electricity for days, increasing vulnerability and hindering recovery efforts.

But the "HR Bank" is also a versatile solution for everyday use, promoting sustainability while encouraging physical activity, benefiting both the environment and your well-being.

Photo from Tukas EV archive
Photo from Tukas EV archive
3. Smart Plugs

Smart plugs are small devices that you attach between an appliance and an existing outlet, giving you the ability to turn on and off the device's power at your command. But smart plugs offer more than just convenience; they also play a crucial role in reducing energy waste and promoting sustainability.

One significant advantage of smart plugs is their ability to tackle phantom power, the energy consumed by appliances in standby mode. Many devices continue to draw power even when not in use, silently adding to your energy bill and increasing your carbon footprint. By cutting off power to these energy-draining appliances when you don't need them, smart plugs help you save valuable energy resources.

Studies estimate that smart plugs can save between 1 and 4.58 percent of energy consumed or approximately 500 to 1000 kilowatts per year.

4. Smart Thermostats

Heating and cooling our homes is energy-intensive, but a smart thermostat can help regulate temperature settings efficiently. These gadgets learn your schedule and preferences, ensuring that your heating and cooling systems are only operating when necessary. By optimizing energy usage, a smart thermostat not only reduces waste but also cuts down on your energy bills.

Smart thermostats also add a level of convenience, as you can control them from a phone or a smart watch, whether you're at home or away. Many of these devices can even remind you when to change your air filters, to ensure better indoor air quality and more efficient operation.

Photo by freepik
Photo by freepik
5. Electric Compost Bins

A countertop compost bin is an essential tool in your journey towards reducing kitchen waste and contributing to a greener planet. Through composting organic waste, you actively participate in the reduction of methane emissions from landfills, while simultaneously producing nutrient-rich fertilizer for your plants and gardens.

Designed for indoor use, these electronic compost bins allow you to compost your food scraps effortlessly. Utilizing advanced technology, these compost bins can break down food waste quickly and efficiently, often in less than 24 hours. By diverting your food waste from landfills and composting it instead, you can substantially reduce your carbon footprint.

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