Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
With the climate crises becoming more pressing and imminent every passing day, it has never been so important to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. However, sustainability truly starts from the home. And, in turn, living in a sustainable home is a great way to encourage our children to live in better harmony with nature and create a more eco-conscious generation.
However, if you live in an older building, you might not be able to get your whole energy supply from solar panels. Yet, there’s a lot you can do to reduce waste and usage of natural resources – yes, right from the comfort of your current home!
Leverage Natural Light
Letting natural light in throughout the day means a better home environment and reduced electricity bills. Whether your home only boasts a few small windows or you are blessed with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, letting natural light through can transform your home for the best.
When optimizing your home’s flow of natural light, made to measure curtains that are easy to open and enhance your home’s design are always the first step. However, don’t forget that strategically-placed mirrors can truly make a room look bigger and brighter. Don’t hold back!
Cut Down on Single-Use Items
If you start looking around the room, it won’t take you long to notice at least three single-use items that you can easily replace for reusable, more sustainable alternatives. From toothbrushes to soap holders, bottles, nappies, and sanitary pads, there is a whole world of products that are designed with the eco-conscious consumer in mind – and they are not actually that difficult to find!
However, remember that the most sustainable choice is always to only buy what you need and reduce waste. So, if you have plastic items that are still usable for some months to come, make sure you use them before swapping to a sustainable alternative.
Be More Mindful About Your Food Shopping
What you buy at the supermarket makes a difference. Firstly, the supermarket food waste issue is becoming more prevalent. However, there are valid alternatives to consider. For example, opting for a zero-waste store, buying expiring products, or subscribing to anti-food-waste apps such as ToGoodToGo are great starting points. Undoubtedly, shopping local, limiting meat consumptions, and filling your fridge with sustainable, organic produce can also help! Limiting waste in the kitchen is an ongoing process, and you don’t have to be perfect to make a positive impact on your family.
Embrace Minimalism
Whether that’s in your wardrobe, kitchen, or home design, minimalism is essential for sustainability. Minimalism is a new lifestyle that does not restrict you from enjoying the comforts of your home. However, it encourages you to think about whether you actually need what you are about to buy! Aside from helping you reduce your expenses, minimalism is a great way to reduce clutter, value the possessions that are dearest to you, and reduce stress levels. Of course, embracing minimalism does not mean getting rid of all of your belongings. Instead, this lifestyle allows you to feel richer – with less!
Laura x