Climate changes brought about by global warming is a cause for concern judging by the calamities caused by natural disasters like flash floods and tsunamis. Even the lay people are starting to take notice of changes in temperature and quality of air caused by pollution of the environment. That is why, our Singapore government is taking steps to protect the environment by promoting a more sustainable living to the HDB community with the HDB Greenprint.

Here is how you can be a part of the Greenprint by building a greener and more sustainable home for your family.

1. Conserve Electricity

Did you know the more energy we use, the more we unintentionally pollute the environment? Fossil fuel is used for generating electricity and the process of burning the fuel produces carbon dioxide. By conserving energy with efficient electricity usage, you can help reduce the emission of carbon dioxide.

Simple habits like turning off the lights and air-conditioner when you aren’t using them can have an impact on your energy consumption.

It is also a good idea to spend a bit more on energy efficient appliances or even opt for solar powered appliances. Singapore is an equatorial country where the sun shines on most days. Make the sun your best friend and utilise its free renewable energy!

2. Water Efficiency

A person can go without food for 3 weeks, but a week without water is detrimental to the human body. This is how important water is to us.

Hence, it is imperative that you check your family’s water usage and habits. Turn off the tap when it is not in use, don’t let it overflow.

Even with good habits, there still can be water wastage when a tap or sink is faulty. It is important to periodically check your piping, tap and sink for any leakage or plumbing issues. Sink leakages can be easily solved by installing a leakproof sink.

3. Shared Transportation

Most places within Singapore are very well connected by MRT and bus routes. Hence, opting to take public transportation to work makes a lot of sense. Lesser cars on the road, lesser traffic congestion as well.

Another alternative is to embrace ride sharing like carpooling with your colleagues and friends. If you are going to the same place, why not share the traveling expense and carpool together? Going places can be fun if you have great company!

If you prefer a healthier alternative of getting around your neighbourhood, grab a bicycle and cycle. It provides you with a healthy dose of exercise and also produces zero pollution. Best of all, bicycles don’t take up too much parking space in your parking lot – you can even keep your bicycle indoors!

4. Go Green with Plants

Plants are a great addition to your living space because they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen during the day.  

You can start growing pretty indoor plants at home. Beside beautifying your home, you can also plant them along your balcony and corridor.

If there is a community garden in your area, participate in the gardening initiatives and encourage your neighbours and friends to join you.

Growing a mini herb corner in the sunniest corner of your kitchen makes a lovely addition to your kitchen décor. Not only are the herbs pretty to look at, you get to pick the freshest greens right off your countertop!  

5. Minimising Waste

Go green by aiming towards a zero-waste lifestyle when you encourage your family to reduce, reuse and recycle.

There are so many ways to minimise waste in your daily life. In the kitchen, fruit and vegetable peel can be composted. Water used to wash your fruits and vegetables can used to water the plants.

Unread magazines and newspapers can be sent for recycling. Old books and magazines can be donated to the public library or children’s home.

In fact, if you are into craftwork, you can upcycle your old items like fabric, paper, etc into something useful.

In smaller homes where space is precious, you can borrow items like an electric drill and ladder from your neighbours. This concept of sharing fosters a closer relationship within your community. Just be sure to return the items that you have borrowed.

Building Good Habits for a Sustainable Home

Conserving the environment is collective effort. Little steps taken at home can make a difference in the long run. When you start cultivating good practices, you are building the foundations for a better tomorrow. After all, building a sustainable home will ensure that Singapore remains a great place to reside in for the future generations to come.