If you need to create an Inglewood 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. More than their positive impact on the environment, these sustainable habits also impact individual consumption practices. This is why they are gaining popularity around the world. Here are ten ideas that you can consider using as a renter to get you started on creating a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Avoid single-use items
It’s easier said than done! Avoiding the use of single-use items can be difficult. A few 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. An awesome 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 are filling 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. To provide you with examples, you can opt to repurpose glass jars, boxes, and other items to become amazing home décor. And items like cardboard, wood, aluminum, and glass can usually be recycled. These are all great ways you can use to have a more sustainable lifestyle.
4. Only buy what you need
Beyond 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 buy 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 many cleaning products are not recyclable or biodegradable, buying them can be a waste. Consider making your cleaning products to stay away from having 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 pretty 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
Another nice way to get sustainable, renewable energy sources is to have more natural light in your home. Whenever you get the chance to, turn off electric lights and open your blinds and shades to light up your home. You can save energy while experiencing 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 appliances still utilize electricity even when they are in sleep mode or turned off. By unplugging them, you could reduce your energy use as a whole while maybe saving a bit on your utility bills, too.
9. Adjust your thermostat
In order to obtain a sustainable approach to heating and cooling your home, you should be able to maintain a consistent temperature indoors. If you think you can save money by only using the furnace or air conditioner when you’re home, you’re actually placing strain on your HVAC system if you rapidly heat or cool as a house can use up a lot of energy. Try setting your thermostat maybe one or two degrees warmer in the summer or a bit cooler in winter, and leave it there instead. 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 some things you should 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 have 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 California Coast or check out our listings online.
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