The world is trying to become more sustainable. No matter where you look, there is always something happening. Whether it is through a big company or practices at your local supermarket, the journey to becoming greener is the one that everyone seems to be taking. However, research suggests that this is still not enough. The best way to ensure that we can fight climate change and not get left behind when it comes to the future, everyone needs to start looking at how they can make their home life more sustainable. Here are just a few ways you can do this.
Eco-friendly laundry products
There are so many benefits to choosing environmentally safe and sustainable laundry products. They are sourced directly from nature unlike those made in a factory and are biodegradable in waterways. There is less chance of an accumulation of waste like there is with man-made products. Natural laundry soap has also been shown to be more effective for those with sensitive skin and can be a great way to not only treat the environment but also to keep your skin feeling fresh. On top of this, eco-friendly laundry products tend to be more concentrated so you can spend less.
Fabric first approach
This is something that you may have architects and professionals talk about when it comes to the building of a new home. All this means is that the design of the house will be driven towards maximizing the performance of the building. This will include things like the materials the home is made from, the positioning of the windows and the doors to reduce heat loss, and the orientation of the building to ensure heat generation. These factors will take precedence over electrical features.
Reuse and repurpose
This is such a simple measure but one that many people miss out on because it requires a little bit more planning and thought. No matter if you are building, extending, or renovating your home, you can always repurpose the materials or reuse them. They can even create some creative and characterful designs. You may want to utilise the old bricks from a section of the home to give a more industrial look or you can refurbish the old oak floors with a little sanding and TLC. As long as the material is in a sound condition then you will be fine.
Low VOC paints
When you are looking to redecorate your home, you will likely look to repaint it. However, paint is one of the worst materials for the environment. That is why low VOCs were created. A low VOC is a paint with less Volatile Organic Compounds than your regular tin of paint. These products are less damaging to your health, less damaging to the environment, and come in a wide variety of colors there is no real reason why you should not be using these paints in your home as opposed to regular ones.
Buy used kitchens
This may not sound like the most ideal scenario, but it is great for the environment and can be great for your wallet. Buying a used kitchen reduces the waste but it will also likely come in around 50 to 70% cheaper than buying new. Many suppliers are now offering this as an option alongside their new kitchens. Many people replace their kitchen not through anything particularly wrong with it but because they are changing the style of the home. It is also worth asking kitchen designers about any kitchens they have on display. They will go to waste otherwise.
Change your windows
If you have not upgraded your windows to double glazing, then doing so will make a huge difference to your heating bill which makes your home more sustainable. Double glazing keeps the draughts from making your home colder and can also reduce outside noise. If you want to go the whole hog, then there is triple glazing available but that is really expensive. Double glazing at the moment is probably the most affordable and sustainable.
Sustainability at home
There are so many ways that you can make your home more sustainable. However, do not feel like you have to make all of the changes all at once. Take your time and pick the ones that will work for you. They may all seem like they will cost you money, but they will save you money in the long run. If you can afford to make the changes, there has never been a better time.
