Sustainability in the Home (Junior Cert Home Economics): Revision Notes

Sustainability in the Home

To live sustainably at home, we can:

• Choose environmentally friendly heating methods.
• Reduce water and electricity usage.
• Minimise waste production.
• Dispose of waste responsibly.

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Electricity

Most Irish households use electricity for everyday tasks such as refrigeration, lighting, cooking, and running appliances.

Using Electricity Sustainably:

• Choose appliances with a high energy rating (e.g., A-rated).
• Turn off appliances like TVs, laptops, and consoles when not in use. Avoid leaving them on standby.
• Use energy-efficient bulbs (e.g., CFL and LED).
• Turn off lights in empty rooms.
• When boiling water, fill the kettle only with the amount you need.
• Wash clothes with a full load or use the half-load setting for smaller amounts.

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Water

Water is vital for cooking, cleaning, and flushing toilets. Conserving and using water efficiently is important.

Gathering Water Sustainably:

• Install rainwater harvesting systems to collect rainwater for tasks like flushing toilets or watering plants.

Heating Water Sustainably:

• Use solar panels to heat household water supplies, harnessing energy from the sun.

Using Water Sustainably:

• Take showers instead of baths to save water.
• Turn off taps while brushing your teeth or washing your hands.
• Fix dripping taps and leaking toilets promptly.
• Wait until you have a full load before using the washing machine or dishwasher.
• Reuse water for tasks like watering plants.
• Use a dual-flush toilet to control water usage.