Save the Planet and Your Pockets: Five Simple Hacks to Live More Sustainably in 2025

For more than 55 years, Earth Day has been celebrated annually on April 22 to mark the birth of the modern environmental movement. First held in 1970, the event was the brainchild of Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, who was inspired to take action after witnessing the devastating effects of a massive oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara in 1969. Motivated to raise public awareness about air and water pollution, Nelson tapped into the energy of the student-led anti-war movement and proposed nationwide environmental teach-ins on college campuses. He partnered with Republican Congressman Pete McCloskey, a fellow environmental advocate, to co-chair the initiative—uniting people across political lines for a common cause. (https://www.earthday.org/history/))

Since that first nationwide demonstration in 1970, Earth Day has expanded into a global movement, with more than 190 countries participating in eco-friendly efforts each year. What began as a grassroots campaign to demand environmental accountability has become one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays across nearly every continent.  

Eco-Friendly Upgrades 

As we reflect on the origins of Earth Day and the progress made since, one thing remains clear: small, intentional choices can have a big impact. Whether you're looking to make your home more energy-efficient or support sustainability in your community, here are five eco-friendly upgrades that benefit both the planet—and your pockets.

Unplugging Appliances 

It’s never easy to admit our parents were right—but if you were ever scolded for leaving the lights on or forgetting to unplug electronics before school, we’ve got news: they had a point. 

Leaving small appliances and electronics plugged in—even when they’re turned off—can quietly drain energy and dollars. Items like TVs, computers, microwaves, and even window AC units consume what's known as standby power when not in active use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, standby power can account for **5 to 10 percent of residential electricity use, costing the average U.S. household up to $100 per year.

Of course, we’re not suggesting you unplug your fridge or washing machine every time you leave the house—but there are smarter ways to reduce energy waste. Consider using power strips with on/off switches, or smart plugs with automatic shutoff features. These small upgrades make it easy to cut off power to multiple devices at once, ensuring you’re not paying for energy you aren’t using—and doing the planet a favor while you’re at it.

Installing Solar Panels to Utilize Nature’s Electricity 

It’s an oldie but goodie - one of the most impactful upgrades a homeowner can make toward sustainable living is by installing solar panels. Utilizing energy directly from the sun, solar panels drastically reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and electricity bills. Once installed, they can provide clean, renewable power for decades with minimal maintenance. Many cities also offer tax incentives or rebates, making solar more affordable than ever. Plus, solar-equipped homes often see a boost in property value, making it a smart environmental and financial investment.

Proper Insulation for Your Financial and Physical Health

Improving your home's insulation can be just as important to your energy bills as it is your health. Proper insulation helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the need to constantly adjust your thermostat during inclement weather in both hot and cold seasons. This means less strain on HVAC systems and lower energy consumption overall. Additionally, by having a regulated temperature throughout your home, you can prevent moisture buildup which typically leads to the spread of mold and other pesky organisms. Making proper adjustments like sealing gaps, adding attic insulation, or installing insulated windows, will help to make your home significantly more energy-efficient. 

Upcycle Your Decor 

Sourcing reused or upcycled décor is a creative way to live more sustainably while giving your home character and charm. Instead of purchasing new items, which require energy, raw materials, and packaging, reused pieces extend the life cycle of existing goods and keep them out of landfills.  You can use resources like Facebook Marketplace, local consignment shops, and estate sales to find thrifted one-of-a-kind furniture and vintage art.  

Smart Products are Smart Investments 

Many appliance manufacturers are now offering smart products that are simple, but powerful tools for sustainable living. Installing smart appliances like thermostats, washing machines, lighting systems, and refrigerators can help with the drain on your energy bills. 

Specifically, smart thermostats are programmable, adjust temperatures automatically, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone. By optimizing energy use based on your habits and weather patterns, smart thermostats prevent unnecessary heating and cooling—reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on utility bills. Some models even provide detailed energy reports, helping you make more informed choices and track progress toward greener living.

Major brands like LG, Samsung, and GE offer smart kitchen and laundry appliances that enhance efficiency by sending usage notifications, monitoring internal performance, and alerting users when maintenance is needed, helping extend appliance lifespans and reduce landfill waste.

By making these home upgrades in 2025, you’ll create a more sustainable and energy-efficient environment, helping to reduce waste, support a healthier climate, and contribute to a brighter future for communities worldwide.