Do you strive to live as sustainably as possible? Filling your home with environmentally-sustainably elements is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and treat the earth with the respect it deserves. Additionally, rejecting components made of harmful, synthetic materials such as plastic goes beyond benefiting the environment. Naturally occurring materials like hardwood and stone are inherently durable and resistant to damage, giving you more for your money. Read on to learn more about eco-friendly home decor.
Natural Stone
Stone is one of the planet’s most abundant natural resources. Not only can stones like granite, marble and slate can be quarried with minimal environmental impact, but they are exceptionally durable and instil your home with an air of luxury. Similar to hardwood, natural stone features, such as fireplaces, floor tiles and countertops, are investments that add economic value to any home. Furthermore, no two stones are identical, making your eco-friendly home decor truly unique.
Eco-Friendly Paint
Many traditional painting materials are not environmentally friendly. Some paints contain harmful chemicals, contributing to air pollution and negatively impacting the environment. Traditional paints typically contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals that can easily evaporate into the air as the paint dries and cures. Fortunately, you can easily source eco-friendly or low-VOC paint. This eco-friendly alternative is particularly recommended for small or enclosed spaces to create a healthier living environment with better air quality.
Second-Hand Finds
One of the best ways to live sustainably is to reduce waste wherever possible. Along with recycling and reusing waste materials, shopping second-hand is an excellent way to keep items in circulation for longer, alleviating the strain on landfill sites. Not only that but purchasing furniture and decor items from second-hand stores and marketplaces is a cunning way to grab a bargain. You can find high-quality goods at a fraction of their original price, doing your part for the environment while saving some cash.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Investing in energy-efficient appliances is another wise choice that benefits both the environment and your bank account. These appliances are designed to consume less energy during operation, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills. This reduced energy consumption helps to lessen the demand on power plants, ultimately lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing our collective carbon footprint. If nothing else, considering the ever-rising cost of energy, energy-efficient appliances are worth considering for long-term savings.
Wicker Furniture
Wicker furniture is often made from natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, or reed, which can be sustainably grown and harvested. Additionally, since these materials are made from plant fibres, they are naturally biodegradable and can break down without leaving harmful residues, such as hydrogen sulphide, ammonia and microplastics. In terms of aesthetics, wicker baskets, chairs and tables bring a touch of nature into your home with a cosy, classic and timeless appeal that doesn't go out of style.
Houseplants
Another excellent way to bring the outdoors in is to fill your space with houseplants. Houseplants are natural air purifiers with the remarkable ability to improve the air quality in your home by filtering out pollutants and toxins, creating a healthier indoor environment. Additionally, bringing wonderfully verdant houseplants into your living space is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to decorate your home. If you’re new to the world of houseplants, consider low-maintenance varieties, such as spider plants, English ivy and aloe vera.
LED Light Bulbs
Replacing your traditional incandescent bulbs with LED alternatives is a highly efficient and eco-conscious lighting choice for any home. In fact, various worldwide governments have already passed legislation to phase out the manufacturing or importation of incandescent light bulbs in accordance with the push for energy efficiency. On the other hand, LED light bulbs consume significantly less energy, helping reduce electricity consumption and lower energy costs.
Solar Panels
While the addition of solar panels may not be suitable for every home, those keen to embrace self-sufficiency and sustainable living should definitely consider them. This renewable energy source not only reduces your dependence on the traditional power grid but also offers significant long-term savings on utility bills. In terms of the environment, solar panels contribute to a greener future by reducing your carbon footprint, promoting environmental responsibility and cleaner energy solutions.