Absolutely! The internet might seem like a harmless cloud in the sky, but it’s actually a bit of an energy guzzler. In fact, the average website churns out about 1.76 grams of CO2 with every page load. That might not sound like much, but when you multiply it by millions of websites and billions of visits, it adds up to an environmental headache on par with big industries like aviation.
But don’t worry—a sustainable website isn’t just about saving the planet; it’s also about making your site a breeze to use. Think faster load times, smoother navigation, and a better experience for everyone who visits. Plus, with Google’s Core Web Vitals now giving a nod to sustainability, going green with your site can even give your SEO a boost.
Your website has a carbon footprint, which means there’s plenty you can do to shrink it. The first step is simply knowing it’s an issue—most people have no idea! To see where your site stands, you can test its carbon output here.
What can be done to make my website sustainable?
Clean Up Your Code:
Think of your website’s code like a messy room—it’s time for a tidy-up. By reducing the amount of scripts, files, and style sheets (CSS for the tech types) cluttering up your pages, you’ll not only cut down on your carbon emissions but also speed things up for your users. And hey, maybe ditch a few fonts while you’re at it.
Reduce Your File Sizes:
Big files are like heavy luggage—nobody wants to lug them around. Keep your images light and breezy by compressing them with tools like TinyPNG or Litespeed. Consider using SVGs or Lottie files for animations to keep things looking sharp without the bloat. And don’t forget to squash your CSS and Javascript files too!
Be Careful with Video:
Videos are great, but they’re also heavy hitters in the data department. Use them sparingly and make sure they’re compressed to within an inch of their lives by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Get Good Quality Green Hosting:
Not all hosting is created equal. You want servers that are not only fast but also eco-friendly. Our servers, for instance, are optimised for WordPress and built for both speed and sustainability. Sure, it might cost a bit more, but quality hosting is worth it.
Use Caching:
With WordPress, a good caching plugin is your best friend. Make sure it’s set up properly and configured to convert your images to WebP format. Your website (and the planet) will thank you.
SEO:
SEO isn’t just about getting found on Google—it’s also about making your site more sustainable. Fill in your titles, descriptions, and alt text on all images. This helps with both your site’s eco-friendliness and user experience.
User Experience:
Help your users find what they need without unnecessary clicks. A streamlined user experience doesn’t just make your visitors happy—it also reduces the energy your site uses. Happy customers and a happy planet? Yes, please!
Hopefully, this has given you a fun-sized look at how you can make your website more sustainable. Whether you’re building a new site or sprucing up an old one, every little bit helps both the planet and your business. Need a hand? Get in touch with us today here. Let’s make your website work for you—and the earth!
