Sustainable living has become a popular topic in the last few years. In an effort to slow down the wear and tear humans are having on the Earth, many people have begun an eco-friendly lifestyle. You’ve heard the saying before; reduce, reuse, recycle. With these tips and tricks, see how apartment dwellers can live more eco-friendly.
Reuse and Recycle
When old furniture gets worn out or stained too much, people have a habit of throwing it away and buying new. Instead of getting rid of your old couch and loveseat, reupholster with a fabric of your choice. This can also give the opportunity to add some flare to your living space. Tattered tapestries that have little life left can be cut into pieces as cleaning cloths or even patches for clothing. Even old, wooden blinds and ladders can be repurposed into a useful piece or décor. Turn old things into new things for eco-friendly apartment living.
Skip the paper towels! Not only are they bad for the environment, but they cost more money than cloth dish towels.
Remember to recycle everything you can. Keep separate bins for each item such as paper, glass, plastic, and even cardboard. Be sure to check with your local recycling center to make sure they accept the things you’re keeping for recycling.
Disconnect and Unplug
Instead of just turning appliances and electronics off, unplug them when not in use. Don’t leave your coffee pot plugged in all day if you only drink a few cups from the pot in the morning. This also means unplugging phone and laptop chargers on your way out of the door.
Donate
Most clothing is not biodegradable. Textiles can take up to 200 years to biodegrade, meaning they are sitting, polluting the earth for nearly two centuries! Instead of throwing away the clothes you no longer wear, donate them instead. Many local businesses and churches would gladly accept used clothing. If the clothing is not in good enough shape to donate, make use of the fabric it is made of. You can stitch together pieces of your old clothes to make a small throw or cut them into scraps for cleaning and patching.
Switch Your Lights
Simply replacing standard light bulbs with LEDs is just one way those living in an apartment can live more eco-friendly. LED bulbs are not only better for the environment, but they can cut costs from your electric bill.
Control Room Temperature
Don’t run to the thermostat when you need a change in temperature. Window treatments and curtains can help keep a room a more comfortable temperature by helping to block drafts in winter and keeping the sun out in summer. This can also help lower your energy costs.
Ditch the Chemicals
Chances are if you open a cupboard in your home, you’ll find many bottles of cleaners that are loaded with chemicals. Skip the bleach and shop around for natural alternatives to your favorite cleaners.
We only have one Earth and should treat it accordingly. Going green and recycling can have a significant impact, even if the entire population doesn’t participate. You can do your part by learning how you can live eco-friendly, even in an apartment.
