It has already been discovered that the state of the environment affects everything from people's health to how fast they age. What is often not realized is just how much technology is doing to help the environment. From smarter homes to electric cars and from going digital to renewable energy, technology is making great strides towards helping preserve the planet.

Electric Cars

The number of electric cars and the level 2 chargers that power them has continued to rise steadily over the last few years. Not only that, but the cost associated with owning one of these environmentally friendly modes of transportation is steadily dropping as well. This is because of the technical improvements being made in the batteries that run the cars.

As a matter of fact, it's predicted that electric cars may be cheaper to purchase and own than traditional cars by the year 2022. So, if you're looking for a way to save the environment, then purchasing an electric car just might be a way for you to help.

Smart Homes

From saving you money on your energy bills to reducing your carbon footprint on the earth, smarter homes are extremely popular and are certainly giving back. Peoples' homes are actually some of the biggest energy users on the planet, but the invention of smart homes has helped with that. Additions like motion-activated lighting and smart thermostats to homes help you use only the amount of energy you need to use and conserve the rest.

If you want to make a difference, try these smart devices, combined with energy-saving appliances and you'll see a difference in your family's health and the light bill every month. The thing is that these smart gadgets can be used in the home or in a business, meaning you can help the environment, not only at home but in your small brick and mortar business as well. Plus, it will save you money in both locations, and that's the bottom line, isn't it?

Going Digital

The digital revolution is said to be doing more to help the planet and the trees than many other practices in effect out there today. Individuals and businesses alike are using way less paper these days, which helps the tree growth and has a positive impact on the environment.

Files are stored in the cloud and most businesses send out bills, newsletters, coupons, and even promotions through email. Even college students are more apt to take notes on their smartphones than write them in a notebook. This age of going digital has helped the environment by saving the trees and preventing the growing trend of deforestation as well.

Renewable Energy

Some of the most important and most recognized advancements in helping the planet have been made in the clean energy sector over the last few years. From solar power to wind and hydroelectric power, renewable energy sources have made quite an impact. Not only are these sources widespread, but they are also cheaper for the people who have turned to them for energy.

The Sharing Economy

The sharing economy is a more recent contribution to the plan to save the planet. It works by allowing people to use and purchase fewer materials. Companies like Uber make it easier to get around, without having to own your own car, which reduces pollution. Services like Netflix have reduced the number of DVDs they offer in favor of online streaming services. This reduces the need for paper, postage, and the need for postal workers to deliver everything. It also reduces the need to make physical copies of these movies and TV shows to ship.

These are just a few ways that tech is helping to save the environment. Are you on board with these changes?