January 20, 2024, 1:00 AM
Science and technology
Photo from freepik
In a time when environmental sustainability is more urgent than ever, adopting an eco-conscious lifestyle has become a top priority for many. Adopting habits that reduce your ecological footprint requires not only a change in behavior, but also the integration of tools and gadgets that promote sustainability. Here are five must-have gadgets that can help you live a greener life.
1. Solar panels
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular among environmentally conscious people due to their ability to generate clean, renewable energy. By harnessing the power of the sun, solar panels can significantly reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, lowering both your carbon footprint and your utility bills.
Solar panels can be installed on your roof, out of sight, on a balcony, in your backyard, etc. Either way, solar panels can help your home make a greater impact on the environment while enjoying the benefits of renewable energy.
Compact solar panels are a convenient way to help reduce your carbon footprint on the go. These devices are often foldable or rollable, making them easy to store in a backpack or car, and can be used to charge a variety of devices, from smartphones to portable speakers. They’re perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and people on the go.
Photo credit: freepik
2. “HR Bank”
In a world that relies heavily on electronics, having a constant power source is paramount. The HR Bank from Lithuanian startup Tukas EV is a device that resembles an old-fashioned exercise bike, and can generate 50-300W/h of power just by pedaling. What’s really cool about the HR Bank is that it can store this energy in a 2 kWh battery, enough to keep the lights on for a week. The HR Bank can also store energy generated from other sources, such as solar panels, generators, wind power, and the power grid.
One area where HR Banks really shine is in post-disaster situations, when natural disasters such as earthquakes, storms and floods can leave entire communities without power for days, increasing vulnerability and hindering recovery efforts.
But the HR Bank is also a multi-purpose solution for everyday use, encouraging physical activity whilst promoting sustainability, benefiting both the environment and health.
Photos from the Tukas EV archive
3. Smart plug
A smart plug is a small device that fits between your appliances and an existing outlet and can power devices on and off as instructed by the user. Beyond convenience, smart plugs play an important role in reducing energy waste and promoting sustainability.
One of the big benefits of smart plugs is that they address phantom power, which is the power consumed by appliances in standby mode. Many devices continue to draw power even when not in use, silently increasing your energy bill and carbon footprint. By cutting off power to these power-hungry appliances when not needed, smart plugs help conserve precious energy resources.
Studies estimate that smart plugs can save between 1 and 4.58 percent of energy consumption, or about 500 to 1,000 kilowatts per year.
4. Smart Thermostat
Heating and cooling your home is energy intensive, but smart thermostats can help you adjust temperature settings efficiently. These gadgets learn your schedule and preferences, ensuring heating and cooling only happens when you need it. By optimizing energy usage, smart thermostats not only reduce waste, but also lower your energy bills.
Smart thermostats also offer convenience by allowing you to control them from your smartphone or smartwatch, whether you’re at home or on the go. Many of these devices can also notify you when it’s time to change your air filters, improving indoor air quality and allowing for more efficient operation.
Photo credit: freepik
5. Electric compost bin
A countertop compost bin is an essential tool in your efforts to reduce kitchen waste and green the planet. By composting your organic waste, you are actively participating in reducing methane emissions from landfills while at the same time producing nutrient-rich fertilizer for your plants and gardens.
Designed for indoor use, these electronic compost bins make composting food waste a breeze. Utilizing advanced technology, these compost bins break down food waste quickly and efficiently, often within 24 hours. By composting food waste instead of sending it to a landfill, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
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