Hitting the sales? Well, it certainly is the right time to embark on a home improvement project since it’s the beginning of a new year and there are so many bargains out there. Before going on a shopping spree though, take a moment to organize and review your priorities.
As the prices are going down, you might be tempted to bag some items that you don’t really need. Instead, you could start by making a list of the things you actually need to start the year off right and pay more attention to quality rather than price. Investing in good quality products may save you money in the long run and, by buying less, you’ll also be lowering your carbon footprint.
We’ve compiled a list of easy tips to help you shop healthier while being a good steward of the environment.
If you’re looking for a new place to live, make sure you include eco-friendliness in your selection criteria. When skimming through rental ads, look for homes that list energy-efficient appliances, and eco-friendly furnishings among the units’ amenities. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 70 percent of U.S. electricity is generated by burning coal and natural gas, which releases greenhouse gases and other air pollutants into the atmosphere, thus contributing to climate change and air quality problems. ENERGY STAR-certified products use less energy than conventional models, which helps reduce air pollution and combat global climate change. For example, dishwashers that have earned the ENERGY STAR are on average 10% more energy efficient and 20% more water efficient than standard models.
Living in a rental does indeed limit your greening options as nobody wants to invest in a temporary dwelling; yet there are some things you can do to live healthier without feeling that you’re wasting money. Some improvements will most probably pay for themselves in energy savings while there are others which you can either sell to future tenants or take with you to the next digs. Consider switching to energy-efficient light bulbs to save money and energy and install a programmable thermostat to take control of your heat and cooling levels. That should help you trim your utility bills all year long while saving the environment.
Reuse, recycle, repurpose. These three principles can make all the difference when trying to build a green lifestyle for you and your family. Try to repair before you consider replacing home products, including vacuum cleaners, furniture and TVs. You can also donate items you can’t fix to vocational schools or workshops that will put them to better use.
When shopping for home décor and electronics, do it with sustainability in mind. Choose products and materials that are durable or may be easily disposed of once you no longer need them. You can find plenty of chic room accessories, reclaimed furniture, vintage décor and even sports equipment at your local thrift store.
To support your efforts and ensure your possessions are fully protected, consider purchasing renter’s insurance. Rental insurance from ResidentShield covers a wide array of mishaps that could cause loss of personal property, including fire, smoke, lightning or burglary.
