In order to lessen our influence on the environment, save money, and create a healthier and more comfortable living environment, we must adopt sustainable behaviors at home. By doing so, we can substantially reduce waste production and carbon emissions and enhance our well-being as a whole.
Whether you rent a single-family home or a building with multiple units, sustainability measures promote healthy living by reducing exposure to hazardous chemicals, improving indoor air quality, and producing financial gains. Furthermore, these actions are crucial for reducing climate change, saving resources, and protecting the ecosystem in your region.
The following are suggestions for renters to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle and reduce their carbon footprint.
Reduce energy and water consumption
Water and energy efficiency in apartments are crucial for environmental impact and cost savings. Tenants can save water resources and lower energy use by putting in place water-efficient methods, fixing leaks, and encouraging responsible water management. Energy efficiency also improves the environment, lowers costs, and makes homes more comfortable.
To save energy, unplug appliances when not in use, switch to natural lighting, and use LED or CFL bulbs instead of incandescent ones. Use any programmable or smart thermostats available to regulate the temperature on a schedule. Set your thermostat to a pleasant but energy-efficient temperature. Insulate windows and doors to prevent breezes and maintain a consistent interior temperature.
By taking shorter showers and fixing leaks in your flat, you can cut down on your water usage. Reuse the water that was used to wash produce to also water indoor plants or a balcony garden. Run full loads of laundry and use shorter wash cycles if your rental home has a washer and dryer. Use eco-friendly detergents and allow clothing to air-dry to increase water efficiency.
Avoid single-use items
Items such as plastic bags, disposable cutlery, and plastic water bottles contribute to excessive waste production, landfills, and ocean pollution. By eschewing these items, anyone can contribute to waste reduction and environmental protection.
To encourage a sustainable way of living, think about using reusable shopping bags and spending money on premium water bottles and beverage containers. Utilize reusable food containers and utensils, as well as your own travel cup or thermos for hot or cold beverages. These small changes to your lifestyle can substantially reduce your consumption of single-use items and your need for repeated purchases, thereby contributing to long-term savings.
Reuse and recycle containers
There are various ways to reuse or recycle the packaging and containers that come with the goods we purchase. By recycling and reusing containers and materials like cardboard, wood, metal, and glass, we can foster creativity while minimizing our negative environmental effects.
The likes of jars and boxes can make distinct home décor. Cardboard, wood, aluminum, and glass are routinely recycled at home to make new, usable goods. These options enhance your home while encouraging a greener way of living. The good news is that appropriate waste management practices, such as recycling and composting, can divert a substantial amount of waste away from landfills.
Make your own DIY cleaning products
Many commonly used cleaning solutions contain substances like bleach, ammonia, and phthalates that are hazardous to both human health and the environment. These harmful substances can irritate the skin, lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health problems. In addition, their use frequently contributes to interior air pollution, and improper disposal can contaminate water sources, posing a severe threat to aquatic life.
Utilize readily available ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, citrus fruits, and essential oils to create eco-friendly cleaning solutions. Baking soda works well as a deodorizer and to clean stoves, sinks, and baths. Aside from enhancing antibacterial qualities, essential oils also offer pleasing fragrances.
You can contribute to the creation of a healthier and more sustainable living environment by choosing simple, natural alternatives that reduce your reliance on harmful chemicals and superfluous packaging.
Improve indoor air quality with plants
Plants are necessary for sustainable living because they enhance indoor air quality, reduce harmful toxins, and conserve energy. They produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, improving the environment and reducing air pollution.
Put plants strategically near windows and balconies help to regulate indoor temperatures and release moisture through transpiration, combating winter dryness. Choose indigenous or locally-adapted plants that require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance. Include edible flora such as herbs and vegetables to reduce food waste. Adopt effective techniques like drip irrigation, refrain from overwatering, and use smart irrigation and watering procedures. Utilize rainwater gathering strategies to save water and promote ecologically friendly plant growth utilizing organic soil additions, compost, or natural fertilizers.
In their rented spaces, renters and tenants can readily contribute to a greener future by adopting practices that reduce environmental impact and encourage resource conservation.
You can live a sustainable life even if you rent an apartment. Contact Real Property Management Wasatch or browse our web listings if you’re a tenant looking for a place to fit your ideal lifestyle better.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
