People all over the globe are making the commitment to embrace sustainable practices in their everyday lives, including their living spaces. While it’s relatively common to find information dedicated to homeowners, there are fewer resources dedicated to renters. Even without control over the primary aspects of a home’s construction and features, there are many ways renters can contribute to creating eco-friendly, sustainable households.
Switch to Sustainable Household Products
A fundamental, yet highly efficient, step towards sustainable living for renters is switching to eco-friendly products for home use. Green cleaning products — those that use biodegradable, natural ingredients, are better for both your health and the environment.
Study labels and pick products from companies that have established environmentally-friendly manufacturing practices. When shopping for home goods, consider sustainably-sourced options. Bamboo towels and bedding or furniture made from reclaimed wood, for instance, have a much smaller carbon footprint than their conventional counterparts.
Implement Energy-Efficient Appliances
If you have the option to bring your own appliances, make energy efficiency a priority. Appliances that carry the Energy Star label are designed to use less water and energy without sacrificing performance levels. This can lead to considerable savings on your utility bills.
Even if the landlord provides appliances, renters can still proactively seek out energy-efficient smaller appliances like convection ovens, or LED light bulbs instead of incandescent.
Embrace a Minimalist Lifestyle
One of the most impactful ways to create a sustainable rental home is by curbing consumption. By investing in fewer and higher-quality possessions, less waste will ultimately be produced. This also limits the energy used in the production, packaging, and transport of the goods.
Creating a minimalist living space doesn’t mean forgoing decoration or personal style. Opt for multifunctional furniture that can be adapted to multiple uses, reducing the need for multiple pieces. Also, consider purchasing second-hand items whenever possible to give them a new life and keep them out of the landfill.
Invest in Plant life
Introducing plants to your home not only improves aesthetics but can create a healthier indoor environment. Certain plants, like spider plants or aloe vera, are scientifically proven to remove harmful toxins from the air. Plus, tending to plants can also improve mental well-being, an often overlooked dimension of sustainability.
Water Conservation Measures
There are several easy ways to conserve water in a rental home. Firstly, take shorter showers, aim for around five minutes. Installing a low-flow showerhead is another great option. These products save water without drastically impacting water pressure. Additionally, you can limit water use by only running the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads.
Waste and Recycling
It can be easy to default to a ‘use-and-toss’ mentality when convenience seems to trump sustainability. Fight this by implementing waste reduction strategies. Dedicate specific containers for recycling, composting organic waste if you have outdoor space, and bringing your own shopping bags instead of using plastic ones.
Temperature Regulation
Reducing heating and cooling use drastically lowers energy consumption. Using heavy curtains can offer insulation, keeping the home cool in the summer and warm during winter months. Also, be mindful of plugging drafts from windows and doorway cracks with DIY or store-bought draft stoppers.
Transportation Considerations
While this doesn’t directly involve the home, sustainable living dictates that every part of life is considered. Choosing a rental that is close to work, schools, or public transportation options can significantly cut down on carbon emissions related to commuting.
Advocate for Green Modifications
Lastly, don’t be afraid to communicate with your landlord about energy efficiency and sustainability. Landlords may be willing to invest in improvements like energy-efficient appliances, better insulation, or even solar panels, especially if it lowers costs and increases the value of the rental property.
Creating a sustainable home as a renter is both a practical and rewarding endeavor. It not only helps conserve valuable resources but also catalyzes broader societal changes from the ground up, marking just the beginning of what’s possible on the sustainability front when renters get involved.
