Winter is the perfect time to reset our daily habits and look at how we can live a little lighter on the planet, and on our wallets. From supporting local food systems to preparing our gardens and cutting down energy bills, small choices make a big impact.
1. Sustainable Eating This Winter
Eating seasonally is just one way we can think sustainably this Winter. Supporting your local growers will not only reduce food miles and import costs, it also means your produce is much fresher and lasts a lot longer.
Let’s check out what is now in season in Victoria:
2. Winter Planting Guide for Melbourne & Surrounding Areas
In addition to seasonal eating, why not go one step further and get yourself organized for Spring? What are the best things to grow in Victoria at this time of year?
Find out here:
3. Winter Energy Saving Tips
Finally, staying sustainable doesn’t stop in the kitchen or garden. Here are our top Winter energy saving tips for heating your house:
1. Use your ceiling fans in conjunction with your heating – yes even in winter! Simply run these in the opposite direction in the winter time, they will then work by pushing the warm air that is trapped in the ceiling back down into the room.
2. Look after your heating outlets – keep these free from obstructions such as furniture, rugs etc and keep the vents clean.
3. Turn heating vents off in spare rooms or in spaces that are not used.
4. Compare energy suppliers – if you have been with your energy supplier for some time chances are you may not be getting the best deal. It might be worth taking some time out to shop around a little. Comparison sites such as iSelect, finder , Compare the Market, Compare Club and Energy Watch are a good place to start.
5. Open curtains and blinds during the day to allow any winter sun to come in.
6. Use rugs to cover bare floors – this will not only help with retaining the heat but also will warm up the look of a room.
7. Look into energy efficient heating systems and limit use of portable heaters where possible. Check out the Energy Saving app to help you make your purchase.
8. Turn heating down over night – use extra blankets to keep warm as you sleep.
9. Use the fire! If you have a wood burner then make the most of it to keep your heating bills down throughout winter. If you stock up on firewood in the preceding seasons you should be good to go!
10. Get your insulation checked and if it’s poor then consider making some improvements. Good insulation helps to keep the heat in during the Winter (and on the flip side, keeps the heat out in Summer) and makes your house easier and cheaper to heat.
11. Seal leaks around doors and windows and use door snakes to keep out cold air.
12. Hot water bottles – Snuggle up with a hot water bottle or rice/wheat pack to keep warm. These are also great to heat the bed up.
