Reduce Your Use and Save Resources

Last updated or reviewed on October 21, 2026

Each of us can make choices that help slow climate change at home, at work, and in our community. While we prepare for a changing climate, we can also change our habits to save resources and reduce our impact.

Slight changes in the little things we do every day can add up to real reductions in energy, waste, and cost. Below are a few quick ways we can all adapt to collectively make an impact and here’s a printable version of that card. 

Personal actions: Open windows on cool nights instead of AC during the summer. Unplug devices. Air dry clothing and dishes. Wash clothes in cold water. Reduce food waste. Compost your food scraps. Use less plastic. Check the Waste Wizard or visit the Visit the City of Asheville’s recycling webpage. Shop or trade for used goods. Donate your gently used items.

From installing weather stripping to keep inside temps inside (and outside temps out!) to larger investments in solar energy and battery back up, investing in upgrades to your home systems can result in big savings. Here’s a printable version of the below information. 

Property Upgrades: Install LED lightbulbs. Maintain mechanicals -  change HVAC filters, flush water heater, etc. Use electrical appliances and lawn tools. Increase home insulation. Install solar panels and a backup battery. Set thermostat to 68 in winter and 78 in summer.  Weatherize. Find and fix water leaks Install low flow faucets and showerheads Switch to low flush toilets

Personal Actions:

  • Open windows on cool nights instead of AC during the summer.
  • Unplug devices.
  • Air dry clothing and dishes.
  • Wash clothes in cold water.
  • Reduce food waste.
  • Compost your food scraps.
  • Use less plastic.
  • Recycle Right! Check the Waste Wizard or visit the Visit the City of Asheville’s recycling webpage.
  • Shop or trade for used goods.
  • Donate your gently used items.

Property Upgrades:

  • Install LED lightbulbs.
  • Maintain mechanicals –  change HVAC filters, flush water heater, etc.
  • Use electrical appliances and lawn tools.
  • Increase home insulation.
  • Install solar panels and a backup battery.
  • Set thermostat to 68 in winter and 78 in summer. 
  • Weatherize.
  • Find and fix water leaks
  • Install low flow faucets and showerheads
  • Switch to low flush toilets