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You Can Help Preserve the Earth by Putting in a Homemade Solar Cell

Topping the list of the global community's concerns is the climate change being documented by researchers and the need to reduce carbon emissions. As world leaders negotiate to come up with a plan to halt climate change and cut down on emissions, we can also play our part. How? Put in a homemade solar cell and not only get free energy but do something good for the environment while you're at it. Make sure to use a kit made by a certified professional if you do decide to put in a homemade solar cell. If you are using an uncertified kit, that is very dangerous. Start your research here by reading our homemade solar cell diy review.
Reducing the amount of energy we use in our home, in our workplace and in our cars can have a significant affect on emissions. This can be accomplished by putting in a homemade solar cell. It's not as scary as you might think. Not only that, it can save you money too. We can collectively make a big difference on a worldwide scale if everyone take the time to make small changes. Here is some advice on how you can cut down on your energy usage.
In the home
* Switch to energy-saving light bulbs. While you're at it, put in a homemade solar cell. It is so much easier than you would think. They cost slightly more, but save up to ten times their price over their lifetime.
* When you are boiling water, or heating anything, only boil the amount you need. You do not need a kettle full of boiling water for one cup of tea.
* Switch off appliances when you are not using them to save money and energy. Turn off your computersm stereos, videos, and TVs when you aren't using them. They consume a lot of energy even when in standby mode.
* Recycle everything that you can. Most people toss their own weight's worth of recyclables like aluminum, plastic, cardboard, paper, cans, and bottles into the trash. For instance, the quantity of power required to produce 20 cans from recycled material is the same amount of energy it takes to produce one can from unrecycled raw materials. Recycling will also save you money on refuse charges.
* If you are located in a region of the world with ample sun exposure, you could likely get all your energy consumption needs met with solar power.
* Turning down your thermostat by just three degrees will save you 10 per cent in energy costs. Also, make sure that your home is well insulated so that it keeps the heat in.
* Make sure your dishwasher and washing machine appliances are full before you start them. Also, try using lukewarm water.
* When you cook, place lids on your pots and pans.
In the office
* Where at all possible, store all documents in digital format on your computer or another storage device. If possible, print on both sides of a page of paper to reduce waste.
* It is not necessary to fly to a meeting that is half way around the world. Online audio and video conferencing has effectively cut out the need for face to face meetings and conferences. Potentially you can save a significant amount of energy here.
* Turn your computer off completely or at least put it to sleep when you are not using it. When your computer is in screensaver mode, it is still using a lot of energy.
In the car
* For shorter journeys, leave the car at home and use a bike instead. Use your bike to get around. Not only is this a fun and healthy way to get around but you'll also not have to deal with traffic jams if you live in a congested part of town.
* Experiment with car pooling to get to and from work. You may get to work faster and it will even save you money.
* Join the hybrid revolution. Ask yourself if you really need your polluting sports utility vehicle. If not, trade it in for a hybrid? Purchasing a hybrid is a great way to reduce your carbon imprint as you can travel the same distance on half the gasoline.
* Use the bus. Public transportation uses less energy than driving. And don't forget how much pollution airplanes cause. Whenever possible, opt for ground transporation options like trains, buses, or cars.
In the shops
* Do not accept plastic bags from shops. Be sure to bring your own recyclable bags.
* Try to get locally grown organic food. Organically grown food typically takes less energy to produce and is farmed sustainably. In addition, the fact that it is grown locally means a reduction in transport costs.
* Try to eat less meat. Livestock are a major source of greenhouse gases.
Water
While water isn't strictly energy, it is a finite resource that we need to preserve and take care of. Here are some tips on how to cut down on your water usage:
* Always use the shower instead of the bath.
* Never leave the tap running while brushing your teeth.
* Only use the dishwasher or washing machine with a full load.
* Try to install a system to use your waste water run-off to keep your garden watered. This will also serve to remind you to choose non-toxic detergents and soaps.
* Water your garden when the sun is not at its peak like before sunrise or at sunset. This allows the water to be absorbed into the ground instead of evaporating in the hot sun if you water during the day.
* Water butts or large water containers are a good idea for the garden. To catch the rain run-off, place them under the edges of your roof.
These are just a few of the simple, yet effective, ways that you can help cut down on energy usage and reduce your carbon footprint. Even if we all follow just a few of these steps it will make a big difference and save us money as well.
Ralph Somers, editor
Homemade Solar Cell Forum