Are you hoping to make your lifestyle eco-friendly? While cutting down on your carbon footprint can feel like an overwhelming task, it doesn’t have to be. If you’re just starting out, making some simple, small changes around your home can have a big impact. Implement some of these easy ways to go green, and get ready to enjoy more eco-friendly living.
Opt for Reusable Items
One of the best ways to go green is to replace disposable items with alternatives you can use time and again. Instead of bringing your groceries home in plastic bags, carry canvas totes with you when you shop. If you regularly purchase disposable razors, choose reusable ones instead. Ditch the plastic water bottles, and replace them with a refillable stainless steel or glass bottle. Other ideas include replacing plastic zippered bags with reusable food storage containers, buying rechargeable batteries, and using refillable ink cartridges.
Cut Down on Paper
Aiming to become tree-free at home can really reduce your environmental impact. Replace paper napkins with cloth napkins, and opt for microfiber cloths — or even just dish towels — in place of paper towels. If you need to print documents, be sure to use recycled paper. If you like to make to-do lists, switch to a digital organizer on your smartphone or computer. Finally, if you like to read books, magazines, and newspapers, opt for digital versions, or pull out that library card. When you’re done with any paper product, make sure to put it in the recycling bin.
Save Energy
Reducing your energy use is another important aspect of eco-friendly living. If you have any old, burned-out lightbulbs, replace them with CFL bulbs instead. Not only are these bulbs brighter, but they last more than five times longer than standard incandescent bulbs. Plug electronics into power strips, and then turn the strips off when they’re not in use. When you need to wash clothes, use cold water instead of hot, and use a drying rack instead of the dryer.
Think Secondhand
Buying secondhand goods whenever you can is an easy way to give an object new life. If you’re in need of clothes, head to the thrift store to find trendy used pieces. Antique shops and garage sales are both great places to score quality used items like housewares and decor. If you need to furnish your home, opt for furniture rental to further reduce your impact.
When it comes to eco-friendly living, furniture rental is one of the best ways to make an impact. Reducing consumption by reusing furniture benefits everyone and is an ideal way to create an eco-home. Look to CORT Furniture Rental for all the furniture pieces you need to create a comfortable home without adding to your carbon footprint. And, if you’re searching for ways to host a eco-friendly event, trade show or conference, check out CORT Events, which provides on-trend event furnishings, lighting and decor using sustainability best practices.