If you’re finding a Michigan Park home that supports sustainable living, you’re not alone. Environmental awareness is at an all-time high. Because of this, many people are searching for new ways to preserve resources, reuse materials, and change consumption habits. Not only do these sustainable habits have a positive impact on the environment, but it also impacts individual consumption practices. This is why they are gaining traction around the world. Here are ten ideas that may help you get started as a renter so that you can have a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Avoid single-use items
It seems easy, but not using single-use items may be more difficult than you think. A couple of examples of materials 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 filling up landfills and oceans. While recycling your plastic bags can be a nice start, why try opting out of plastic altogether? You can do this through the use of reusable shopping bags.
3. Reuse and recycle
A lot of the products we buy come in containers that could be put to further use or recycled. To provide examples, you can opt to repurpose glass jars, boxes, and other items to become creative home décor. And pieces of cardboard, wood, aluminum, and glass can often be recycled. These are all good ideas to create a more sustainable lifestyle.
4. Only buy what you need
Aside from reusing and recycling when you get the chance, you should also reduce the number of items you buy or opt for bulk items with less packaging. If you only get 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, it can be a waste of resources. Consider developing your cleaning products to avoid having waste (and harsh chemicals, to boot). Most of the items in your home can be cleaned with simple ingredients and a soft rag.
6. Bring the outdoors in
Turn to lovely greenery to brighten and freshen any room. Houseplants not only aid in freshening indoor air, but they also contribute natural beauty to your home.
7. Utilize natural light
Another great way to get sustainable, renewable energy sources is to provide more natural light into your home. When you get the chance, 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
Apart from turning off lights that are not being used, you should also unplug electrical appliances when they are not being used. Televisions, game systems, lamps, and other appliances still use electricity even when they are in sleep mode or turned off. By unplugging them, you can reduce your energy use as a whole while maybe saving a bit on your utility bills, too.
9. Adjust your thermostat
Having a consistent temperature indoors is a sustainable approach to heating and cooling your home. If you think you can save money by only using the furnace or air conditioner when you’re home, you’re actually putting strain on your HVAC system if you rapidly heat or cool a house as it can use up a lot of energy. 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 a lot more efficient and energy-conscious in the long run.
10. Conserve water
Besides conserving energy, one should also be pondering on ways to save water, too. Turning off the taps while brushing your teeth, soaping up in the shower, or washing dishes are some things you should make sure to do. You should be utilizing water-conserving appliances whenever possible, and capture and reuse water whenever you can.
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 have the sustainability you want. If you’re ready for a rental home that better supports your desired lifestyle, reach out to Real Property Management DC Metro or check out our listings online.
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