We now live in a day and age where climate change has affected all of us in some way. Whether experiencing the impact of wildfires on the west coast, torrential hurricanes to the east, or enduring wild winter weather in the south, it’s safe to say that no one can escape the consequences left behind by fossil fuels. But there are ways to reverse the damage done and promote a healthier planet and it starts with everyday habits right at home.

1. Reduce Waste

Many homeowners have taken simple steps to reduce the amount of waste they produce. Supplying your home with reusable items can cut down waste significantly. For example, many families have ditched the paper towels and used a cloth version instead. Repurposed containers for food storage and reusable water bottles and straws also fall into this category. As more homes adopt a sustainable lifestyle, we will continue to see how even minor changes like these can make an impact.

2. Get a Green Thumb

Having a home garden is beneficial for many reasons. For one thing, it can provide fresh produce for cooking and snacking. But beyond that, it can also help promote cleaner air while supporting beneficial birds and insects. Planting trees can also carry similar benefits while providing shade during warmer weather. Just make sure they don’t block any rooftop solar panels.

3. Clean Green

Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact many common cleaning products have. Conventional cleaners can contain ingredients that are non-biodegradable and can release toxins into water systems. The good news is that eco-friendly cleaning products are becoming more readily available on store shelves and are just as affordable. Some homeowners have even replaced common household cleaners altogether for more naturally derived counterparts like vinegar and baking soda. The best way to ensure minimal impact is to take a quick moment to read the label or go the DIY route.

4. Go Electric

Electrification has become increasingly popular over the past few years. The demand for electric vehicles continues to rise and manufacturers are taking note with goals to make these models more mainstream by 2025. Many new retail stores have caught on to the trend, providing charging stations for EV consumers. But cars aren’t the only things going electric. Yard tools like lawn mowers and weed eaters powered by battery are also becoming popular solutions, helping this outdoor task have a much cleaner level of air quality.

5. Reduce Energy Use

While you’ve probably heard it before, it’s important to be mindful of how much energy is being consumed at any given time. Many homeowners leave the majority of their appliances plugged in, even when not in use. Creating the habit of plugging things in only when needed can help reduce strain on the electrical grid. This has become increasingly important during wildfire season to help mitigate rolling blackouts. But that is just the tip of the iceberg for what homeowners can do when it comes to energy conservation. Other conscious decisions, like only powering large appliances when needed, can also make a difference. For example, only run the dishwasher, washer and dryer with a full load. Switching off lights and keeping your house two degrees warmer in the summer or cooler in the winter can also play a part in energy conservation.

6. Switch to Solar Energy

Perhaps our favorite tip (yes, we’re biased) is opting in for clean energy. Solar power is a known solution for helping reduce a home’s carbon footprint. This source of renewable energy absorbs light from the sun to produce electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gasses. And for the times when your home isn’t able to pull power from the sun, there’s another sustainable resource that homeowners are readily adopting: solar batteries. SunPower’s SunVault™ system is a sleek storage solution featuring intelligent software that enables homeowners to choose how and when their stored energy is used. It’s a perfect companion to those looking for electricity resiliency during power outages and greener solar + storage solutions.

Sunergy Systems has a known track record for sustainable business practices. We don’t just offer clean energy solutions, we foster a culture of sustainability all the way down to our solar panel recycling program. Taking care of our planet is a way of life here at Sunergy Systems, and we are continuously looking for new ways to promote a healthier planet.

This post originally appeared on the SunPower Resource Blog