If you’re searching for a Greenfield home that supports sustainable living, you’re not alone. Environmental awareness is at an all-time high. This is why a lot of people are looking for new ways to preserve resources, reuse materials, and change consumption habits. Not just the positive impact on the environment, these sustainable habits also influence individual consumption practices. This is why they are gaining popularity all over the world. Here are ten ideas that you can use to get started as a renter so that you can produce a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Avoid single-use items
It may not seem like much of a challenge, but refraining from using single-use items can be tricky. Some examples of things that are made to be used once and then thrown away would be plastic straws, paper towels, plastic cutlery, and so on. A great way to kick things off if you’re just starting is to cut down the amount of these products you use.
2. Opt-out of plastic bags
Plastic shopping bags are another single-use item that is clogging up landfills and oceans. While recycling your plastic bags is can be a good start, also try opting out of plastic altogether through the use of reusable shopping bags.
3. Reuse and recycle
There are so many products we buy that come in containers that could be put to further use or recycled. For example, you have the option to repurpose glass jars, boxes, and other items to make them into creative home décor. And items like cardboard, wood, aluminum, and glass can often be recycled. These are all great ways you can use to have a more sustainable lifestyle.
4. Only buy what you need
Aside from reusing and recycling whenever you can, you should also reduce the number of items you buy or opt for bulk items with less packaging. If you only purchase what you need and try to select containers that take up less space, you can simplify your life while making it more sustainable.
5. Make your own cleaning products
Because a lot of cleaning products are not recyclable or biodegradable, buying them can be a waste. Consider creating your cleaning products to avoid creating waste (and harsh chemicals, to boot). Most items in your home can be cleaned pretty much with simple ingredients and a soft rag.
6. Bring the outdoors in
Turn to gorgeous greenery to brighten and freshen any room. Houseplants not only aid in freshening indoor air, but they also give natural beauty to your home.
7. Utilize natural light
A great way to get sustainable, renewable energy sources is to allow more natural light into your home. If possible, turn off electric lights and open your blinds and shades to light up your home. You can save energy at the same time by getting a mood boost from the sunlight.
8. Cut down on energy use
Besides turning off lights that are not being used, also try to unplug electrical appliances when they are not being used. Televisions, game systems, lamps, and other things still use electricity even when they are in sleep mode or turned off. By unplugging them, you are able to reduce your energy use as a whole and maybe save a bit on your utility bills, too.
9. Adjust your thermostat
Achieving a consistent temperature indoors is a sustainable approach to heating and cooling your home. While there are some people who think they can save money by only using their furnace or air conditioner when they are home, trying to rapidly heat or cool a house can use up a lot of energy and put a strain on your HVAC system. So how about setting your thermostat maybe one or two degrees warmer in the summer or a bit cooler in winter, and leaving it there? This is can be more efficient and energy-conscious in the long run.
10. Conserve water
Besides conserving energy, there are many things you can do to save water, too. Turning off the taps while brushing your teeth, soaping up in the shower, or washing dishes are a couple of things you should always try to do. You should be using water-conserving appliances whenever possible, and capture and reuse water whenever you get the chance to.
Being a renter doesn’t mean you can’t live a sustainable life. But the rental house you are in can either make it easier or harder to get the sustainability you want. If you’re ready for a rental home that will better support your dream lifestyle, reach out to Real Property Management Greater Milwaukee or check out our listings online.
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