If you’re finding a Windermere home that supports sustainable living, you’re not alone. Because environmental awareness is at an all-time high, it is making many people change their consumption habits. They are now seeking new ways to preserve resources and reuse materials. Beyond their positive impact on the environment, these sustainable habits also influence individual consumption practices. This is the reason why they gaining popularity all over the world. Here are ten ideas that you, as a renter, can use to start 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 is taking 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 purchase 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 things like 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 to, 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
Purchasing cleaning products can become a waste because so much of them may not be recyclable or biodegradable. Consider making your cleaning products to stay away from having waste (and harsh chemicals, to boot). Most items in your home can be cleaned properly with simple ingredients and a soft rag.
6. Bring the outdoors in
Turn to attractive 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 provide 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
Aside from 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 gadgets 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
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 far 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 a few things you should always try to do. You should be using 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 reach the sustainability you want. If you’re ready for a rental home that better supports your desired lifestyle, reach out to Real Property Management South Orlando or check out our listings online.
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.
