The key to a sustainable lifestyle 101

In recent years sustainable living has become a crucial point of conversation among both young and old. It implies a lifestyle that attempts to create a healthier and cleaner way of living.

Sustainable living can come in all forms be it in the food we consume or the clothes we wear or even the way we decorate and furnish our homes. When a generation that’s grown up aware of the problems that plague the planet, it comes as no surprise when they realize the role played in helping to save our planet. Increasingly more and more young adults are looking into sustainable and affordable options when it comes to fitting out their new places. Here are a couple of ideas to check out when looking for more sustainable living options.

Use and reuse for a happy planet Credit:Wix

1. Pre-loved goods all the way

Nothing speaks sustainable like reusing pre-loved goods. Be it furniture, décor or even utensils, buying used items is a viable and cost-effective method, especially for students who are moving away from home. It helps in reducing our carbon footprint and saves these items from being wasted. Websites like Quickr and Furbicle provide repurposed and reused home furnishings at a reduced cost.

Sustainable materials for a sustainable planet Credit:Wix

2. Use sustainable décor materials

When looking into buying decorative pieces consider buying items made of eco-friendly materials like linen, plant fiber hemp etc. Avoid buying new items with plastic or synthetic materials. Natural fibers and upcycled fabrics can help your living spaces look good while also reducing the stress it creates on the environment.

Let your inner artist do the talking Credit:Wix

3. Get creative

A good way to inject personality into your space is by making your own décor. With many youtubers dedicated to making DIY home décor videos there exists hours of content on how to spruce up your home. Photo walls, macramé décor, and cloud ceilings are some ideas you can include in your rooms. DIY décor allows more flexibility as one can decide the colour, shape and size of what they want accordingly thereby reflecting the personality of the person. Not only is it less expensive but you can also use materials lying around the house to make it.

Bright minds use bright LEDs Credit:Wix

4. Make the switch to LED lights

Switching your lighting to LED light bulbs is extremely environmentally friendly as it comes with many benefits besides being cost-efficient. It requires less power consumption, has an extended lifespan, and produces almost zero UV emissions. LED light bulbs contain no toxic materials due to which they are easy to recycle.

Reuse the trash reduce the trash Credit:Wix

5. Reuse and Recycle

The most basic tenant of sustainable living is to reuse and recycle. Everything from old bottles, old bed sheets, worn clothing can be reused and recycled. Besides home décor, it can also be used for other practical aspects around the house like storage and cleaning. When items get broken or worn consider trying to fix them rather than throwing them away. Almost anything and everything you use can be reused. Old glass jars can be turned into plant pots, bottle caps can be turned into wall décor, even the cutleries that come with your Zomato or Swiggy order can be reused! With many Pinterest DIY ideas, the sky is the limit for what you could do with these things lying around at home.

Add some to plants to jazz up the room Credit: Wix

6. Get plants

You can never go wrong with plants! Be it big or small, planters instantly open a room and leaves you feeling happy. Plants inside the house are found to relieve stress and anxiety, increase concentration, and help you sleep better. Most indoor plants are usually easy to maintain and take minimum effort to look after. Plants also help to purify the air inside a room and give it a natural feeling. Recycle that mason jar, get that jade plant, and embark on the journey of being a plant mom/dad.

Good things comes to those who thrift Credit:Wix

7. Shop small scale and homemade

Increasingly more and more small scale businesses have taken up residence in social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Flea markets and small scale independent businesses are also places to check when looking into items for your home. Thrifting is another great way to save on money and add to your wardrobe. You are sure to find some unexpected gems at affordable prices. Most of them also tend to upcycle and recycle and use eco-friendly materials in making their products.