Sustainability is a big priority in our everyday lives, and a big part of that is how your home operates. The good news is, there are plenty of things you can do that won’t require much effort or expense to achieve a greener way of living, especially at home.
Below we discuss a few easy ways to make your home more eco-friendly, most of which offer the added benefit of saving a little money as well!
Switch your energy supplier
There are more green energy suppliers available now than ever before. If you haven’t checked with your current supplier to see if they offer greener solutions, this is the first step. If they do, you are in for a very simple switch.
If not, a little shopping around can lead to a very effective way to make your home more environmentally friendly. If you have the capability in your home, you can look at alternative ways of heating your home with a log fire, for example.
Using natural products
Choose cleaning products by their suitability for the surface and task, clear instructions and verifiable environmental information. A natural or plant-based description does not establish that a product is less hazardous or environmentally preferable in every use.
Use a suitable product according to its label instead of assuming an online household recipe matches a tested cleaner. Do not mix products, and check the required handling, dilution and disposal instructions.
Bulk buy certain products
If you have the storage space, bulk buying your cleaning products and toiletries reduces your plastic waste and petrol or shipping impact. You’ll also save some money in the long run on the purchase.
The amount of rubbish your household produces every year by minimizing the amount of packaging you purchase and reading the labels to ensure you are purchasing recyclable containers and disposing of them correctly.
Using sustainable homeware
Compare traceable material information, durability and repairability when choosing homeware. A relevant timber certification can be one selection factor, but it does not by itself prove that a finished product has the smallest possible carbon footprint.
You can also take control of your recycling by purchasing and refurbishing second-hand furniture. This can be an excellent way to find something unique and customize it to match your unique style. After all, there’s nothing better than a piece that is one of one!
Always use reusable bags and coffee cups
One of the easiest things we can do to reduce single-use plastic waste is to carry a reusable tote bag or reusable coffee cup when you go out to the shops. It’s important to note that reuseable bags are rendered pointless if you buy new ones each time you go to the supermarket because you forgot to bring some with you! Instead, invest in some mesh produce bags or slimline bags that are easily folded and left in your handbag or glove compartment.
The same can be said about your reusable coffee cup. Avoid disposable cups by investing in a decent reusable option. Many cafes will even offer a small discount if you supply your own cup!
Go vegan
The widespread adoption of a vegan diet would significantly cut food-related greenhouse gas emissions while providing a healthier diet. Forget about the myths that a plant-based diet isn’t healthy or delicious – vegan food has come a long way, and you can now eat pretty much any meal and have it taste amazing! Even better, you can live with a clear conscience that no animals are harmed for something as simple as a sandwich.
Only buy what you need
Unnecessary excess leads to unnecessary waste. This is something to specifically keep in mind when shopping at your local supermarket. Only buying the things we need prevents food and packaging waste. This should also be front of mind when buying that new outfit, as we send a lot of clothing to landfills every year.
The minimalistic approach to your shopping will also benefit your bank account. Thank us later!
Fill your home with plants!
Choose a bromeliad or another houseplant for its appearance and the conditions you can maintain. Check the species, light requirements and container care rather than using an unsupported percentage of gas removal to justify the purchase.
A few well-chosen plants can add visual interest without requiring a room full of containers. Address a ventilation, odour or pollution problem through measures appropriate to its source rather than relying on decorative greenery.
Get a little greener every day
These are some small things that can be done to create a more sustainable home. As you can see, they are pretty easy and even a little fun. If we all keep eco-friendliness in front of mind, the world will be in better shape. Pair this with our blog about updating your decor, and you’ll be comfortable and green at home in n time!
