Decorating your home in a sustainable way involves making mindful choices that minimize environmental impact and promote eco-friendly practices. The good news it it’s easier than you think!
The first step is to educate yourself about sustainable decor, and that’s what I’m here to help you do.
These are ten simple ways you can design a more environmentally conscious home.
Related: 9 Sustainable Materials You Should Be Decorating Your Home With
10 Sustainable Decor Tips
1: choose sustainable materials
Consider pieces made from rapidly renewable resources like bamboo or jute, which grow quickly and are highly sustainable. Another great one is reclaimed wood, which is wood obtained from old structures. It helps reduce the demand for virgin timber and minimizes deforestation.
2. upcycling & repurposing
Give old furniture a new look by repainting or re-staining it. Consider repurposing items, like turning an old ladder into a bookshelf or transforming wooden pallets into functional furniture pieces. This approach not only adds character to your decor but also reduces waste.
3. shop second-hand
Explore local thrift shops, vintage stores, or online platforms for unique, pre-loved items. By choosing second-hand pieces, you contribute to a circular economy and extend the lifespan of items that might otherwise end up in landfills.
Related: Fast Homeware: What To Know About Fast Fashion’s Unsustainable Sibling
4: choose energy efficient lighting
Install LED bulbs, which consume less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Consider motion-sensor or smart lighting systems to optimize energy use.
5. bring nature indoors
Incorporate a variety of indoor plants to enhance air quality and add a touch of nature to your home. Plants like snake plants, spider plants, and pothos are easy to care for and contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
6. get a smart thermosthat
Invest in smart thermostats to regulate your home’s temperature efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering your carbon footprint. They can learn your preferences over time, leading to more efficient heating and cooling.
7. choose sustainable textiles & fabrics
Choose organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo fabrics for your curtains, bedding, and upholstery. Look for textiles with certifications like GOTS, ensuring they meet strict environmental and social criteria.
Related: Greenwashing Examples: How To Tell If A Home Decor Brand Is ACTUALLY Eco-Friendly
8. only buy what you need & love
Rather than impulse buying everything that’s trendy or that catches your eye, limit your shopping to items you truly love or will get lots of use out of. This helps decrease overconsumption and waste production, minimizing the amount of trash that ends up in landfills.
9. shop small
Small business use less material and less energy to make their products. Plus, they’re more likely to make deliveries and run business-related errands locally, reducing their carbon footprint.
10. choose energy efficient appliances
When upgrading appliances, prioritize those with high Energy Star ratings. Energy-efficient appliances not only reduce your carbon footprint but also contribute to long-term energy savings.
Related: What Makes Jute Rugs Sustainable? (And Why Use Jute Decor In Your Home)
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