Tips for making your space more eco-friendly.
Photo by Sarah Pflug on Burst
Do you care for the environment? Are you concerned about climate change but don’t know what you can do about it? By incorporating these eco-friendly practices into the design of your space, you can create a more sustainable and environmentally conscious environment for yourself and future generations.
Not only will you be reducing your carbon footprint, but you will also be setting an example for others to follow. Start with small changes like switching to energy-efficient appliances, reducing water usage, and recycling to make an immediate impact. Check out the remaining sections of this blog for guidance and green labels to keep in mind during any space renovation or even when upgrading individual pieces of furniture or finishes.
Embracing these eco-friendly practices will not only benefit the planet but also contribute to a healthier and happier lifestyle. The design decisions you make can and do have a larger impact. We have the power to impact popular culture, one eco-friendly choice at a time.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting: Opt for LED bulbs which consume less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Incorporate recycling bins into your space for paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Whenever possible, opt for reusable items instead of single-use products. Refresh old furniture by reupholstering it and explore secondhand and vintage shops. Many vintage furniture pieces are of superior quality compared to new modern pieces.
Choose Sustainable Materials: When decorating or refurbishing your space, consider materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or cork that are renewable and have a lower environmental impact. Bamboo is fast growing and highly sustainable, making it an excellent choice for furniture, flooring, and decor items. Reclaimed wood adds character and history to your space while reducing the demand for new timber. Cork is not only eco-friendly but also provides natural insulation and is resistant to mold and mildew, making it ideal for flooring and wall coverings. Also, natural fiber materials are sustainable because they are biodegradable and do not contribute to environmental pollution.
Bring in Plants: Indoor plants not only enhance the aesthetic of your space but also help improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity. Not only will they bring life and color to your space, but they will also create a calming and refreshing atmosphere.
Invest in Solar Panels: Watch your energy bills decrease while you contribute to a more sustainable future. Solar panels harness the power of the sun to generate clean and renewable electricity for your home or business. By investing in solar panels, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also increase the value of your property.
Use low VOC Wall Paint: Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints emit fewer harmful chemicals, making them a safer choice for you, your family, and the environment.
Buy Local: Aim to shop from furniture and fabric stores that deliver within a 500 mile radius. By shopping from furniture and fabric stores within a 500-mile radius, you can reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing transportation emissions. Additionally, buying local helps to support small businesses and artisans, contributing to the local economy and preserving unique craftsmanship.
Install Double Glazed Windows: Double glazed windows help to insulate your home or business by providing thermal efficiency and soundproofing benefits.
Choose Vintage Light Fixtures: Vintage light fixtures are not only stylish and unique, but they also contribute to sustainability by giving new life to old materials. By choosing vintage lighting options, you can add a touch of character to your space while supporting eco-friendly practices.
There is no better time than now to make a positive impact on the earth. Taking small steps in our daily lives can make a big difference in the fight against climate change. Whether it's reducing our energy consumption, recycling more, opting for sustainable products, or supporting environmental initiatives, each action contributes to a healthier planet. By collectively making conscious choices, we can create a brighter and more sustainable future. Let's all do our part today to ensure a greener and cleaner ecosystem.
Look out for these eco-labels:
Greenguard gold certified (includes low VOC emissions)
FSC certified wood (responsibly sourced wood products)
Energy Star (products that promote energy efficiency)
EPEAT (sustainable electronics)
Green Seal (environmentally preferable cleaners and services)
Rainforest Alliance
USGBC / LEED certified (building projects and new construction)
Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)
Cradle to Cradle (evaluates the full life cycle of a product)
BIFMA compliant (develops sustainability standards for furniture)
UL EcoLogo (based on the life cycle of products)
CRI Green Label plus (sustainable carpets)
SCS certified (certifies performance claims and checks indoor air quality)
Making eco-friendly design choices can give you sense of purpose and meaning. By incorporating sustainable materials, energy-efficient lighting, and environmentally friendly practices into your space's design, you not only contribute to a healthier planet but also create a harmonious and inspiring environment for yourself and others. Embracing eco-friendly design is not only a practical decision but also a meaningful way to make a positive difference in the world around you. The stakes are high, the time is now and it all begins with you.