We all know that living in an eco-friendly way is essential for the environment. But what does that mean when you’re living in an apartment? Here are six solid tips on making your apartment more eco-friendly and doing your part to help save the planet.
1. Optimize Energy Usage
First, think about your energy use. Are there any immediate things you can do to reduce your energy consumption? One straightforward way you may accomplish this is to switch to LED light bulbs. They use less energy and will save you money on your electric bill. You can also unplug appliances when you’re not using them. However, even if they aren’t on, they’re still using energy if plugged into the sockets.
Additional awareness of energy usage will help you focus on solutions. Almost all apartment dwellers can find ways to eliminate wasteful energy use. It’s worth exploring how intelligent home technology can assist in an intensive effort to maximize the least possible amount of electricity.
Fortunately, energy efficiency is measurable. Look for appliances with Energy Star ratings. The U.S. federal government publishes extensive energy about its program that is helpful for apartment residents. Using efficient lightbulbs and machines will significantly impact your energy use.
2. Conserve Water
Second, think about your water use. A simple way to save water is to install a low-flow showerhead. That will help you save water and money on your water bill. You can also be mindful of how much water you’re using when cooking or laundry.
Again, new technology is leading the way for water conservation. Many products exist now that monitor usage and help reduce leaks and waste. It’s worth determining if an investment in this area is within reach and will help you achieve your sustainability goals.
Clean drinkable water is always a top priority, so cutting down on waste is a top planet-saving tactic. Any water that avoids waste can serve someone else.
3. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products When Possible
Third, think about the products you use. Try to use more eco-friendly cleaning products. That includes things like using vinegar and baking soda instead of harsh chemicals. You can also buy recycled paper products.
It’s a golden era of eco-friendly products, and you’ll find more options available. As with most consumer products, read the reviews and ratings to understand how customers respond to each one.
4. Discover Ways To Recycle
One way to reduce the amount of waste you produce is recycling.
Many people are familiar with the standard recycling symbols for plastic, paper, and aluminum cans.
However, other recyclable materials might not be apparent. For example, you can recycle batteries and electronic waste at specialized facilities that process these products, keeping them out of landfills.
It’s good to check with the local recycling facility or waste management department to learn more about what items are eligible for recycling. By taking the time to recycle, you can help to reduce pollution and conserve our natural resources.
It’s also worth pointing out that the internet remains a powerful research tool for learning more about energy efficiency, eco-friendliness, and sustainable living. So even if you start with relatively little knowledge, you’ll find resources that help you implement new lifestyle hacks to optimize your daily life.
5. Insulate When Possible
When renting an apartment, you can’t control all building elements. However, you can make adjustments like using better-insulated window coverings to minimize drafts and the loss of indoor-treated air.
This simple adjustment saves on utility expenses, but it also helps to keep your apartment home more comfortable all year long.
6. Avoid One-Time Use Items
While convenient, single-use items are almost always wasteful and environmentally damaging. For example, plastic items like straws, bottles, facemasks, and bags harm the planet and put wildlife at risk.
By replacing single-use items like grocery bags and water bottles with reusable replacements, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and take steps to help protect the environment we know as the planet earth.
If you must use plastic, choose products made from food-grade materials that are free of BPA and other harmful chemicals. You can also seek out products made with recycled plastic, as this helps reduce the amount of new plastic getting produced to meet demand.
By following these straightforward tips, you can make your apartment more eco-friendly and do your part to help save the planet. None of these ideas are difficult to implement. So start now and help keep the one resource we need most – our planet.
This article was sponsored by Link Apartments®, a brand of modern apartment communities that is focused on created essential living in urban areas, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and connection.
