If you’re looking for a National Harbor home that supports sustainable living, you’re not alone. Due to the fact environmental awareness is at an all-time high, it is causing a lot of people to seek 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 you can use to get started as a renter so that you can produce 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 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. If you’re just starting, a great thing to do first is to trim 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, you should also take into account not using plastic altogether. And you can do this by using reusable shopping bags.
3. Reuse and recycle
Many of the products we purchase come in containers, and this 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 pieces of cardboard, wood, aluminum, and glass can often be recycled. These are all possible ways 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
A lot of cleaning products are not recyclable or biodegradable, so buying them can be a waste. Consider creating your cleaning products to avoid creating waste (and harsh chemicals, to boot). A lot of things in your home can be cleaned properly 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 add natural beauty to your home.
7. Utilize natural light
Another great way to get sustainable, renewable energy sources is to allow more natural light into 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 consider unplugging 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 are able to reduce your energy use as a whole and maybe save 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 placing strain on your HVAC system if you rapidly heat or cool as a house can use up a lot of energy. And so you can try setting your thermostat maybe one or two degrees warmer in the summer or a bit cooler in winter and leave it there. This is a lot more efficient and energy-conscious in the long run.
10. Conserve water
Along with conserving energy, there are a couple of 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 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 Gold or check out our listings online.
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