Written by Casey Clair, Energy & Climate Advocate

4-minute read

Looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint this summer? It’s the perfect time. Whether you’re staying at home or going on vacation, there are meaningful ways for you and your family to have fun and reduce your environmental impact at the same time.

Staying Home 

If you’re having a staycation this summer, don’t miss out on the opportunities you have to live sustainably. To beat the heat at home, take into account the day’s natural diurnal cycle. Open windows at night and in the early mornings to let in cool air and shut them and draw any blinds or curtains to keep the sun’s rays out in the daytime. If this is something you already do to lower your hydro bill, try taking it a step further. For instance, adding multiple potted plants to your home can improve your mood as well as help thermally regulate your home through the humidity that they provide.

Take a look at some of these low-maintenance plants for your home or business! Snake plants, spider plants, Christmas cactuses, and aloe vera are just some examples of easy-to-care-for species that can brighten up your home and provide energy-saving benefits. 

Whether you’re cultivating your dream backyard, patio, or balcony this year, outdoor lighting is a must. For those late-night summer activities, try using solar-powered LEDs. With longer days, you’ll get a much better charge on your solar panels, and you won’t have to make your outdoor design work based on where your outlets are located. 

Going Out

While you’re making plans across the city, try taking public transit. Special lines open up during the summer to the Assiniboia Downs for the Red River Exhibition, just outside of the city. This is an opportunity to stay safe, decrease traffic, and have your staycation across Winnipeg! If you have a designated driver, you might be interested in a local car co-op program! There are many locations across the city to rent and share vehicles when you need one. This is ideal for summer vacations in and around Winnipeg when you don’t have access to a vehicle full-time. 

If you are going away this year, make sure to leave your home as energy efficient as possible! Vacations can be expensive enough. Even the usual unplugging of appliances and power bars and turning off your lights and ceiling fans will save you money while you’re away. If you have concerns about the safety of your home, consider having a friend or family member house-sit or come by for short periods and leave a light on! You can also try installing light timers, automatic porch lights, and/or home security cameras for added peace of mind, while keeping your energy bills to a minimum. 

If you’re looking for more ways to increase your energy efficiency this summer, The Chamber’s Energy and Climate Advocate, Casey Clair, is available to talk about your potential energy savings! Reach out for a friendly phone call at (204) 688-1304 or email [email protected] for some bright ideas today.