BY STEPHANIE TRENDOCHER, FW Writer

Living ‘green’ is vital for the future of our planet.
As a consumer it is becoming easier to make
earth-friendly choices in terms of food, clothing
and household products. Whether you are a
home-owner or renting an apartment there are
many ways to transform your dwelling into a
‘green’ living space.

Save Energy
Switching to energy efficient appliances is an
ecologically responsible solution. If you are on
a budget, you can still reduce your energy usage
without the added expense.
• Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact
fluorescent lights (CPL) – they use less power and
heat, and last longer than traditional bulbs.
• Turn the switch off and utilize natural light from your windows
whenever possible.
• For window covers
select unbleached
curtains and blinds
made of natural
materials like linen,
bamboo and sea grass
and coloured with
natural pigments.
Use Less Water
• Low water
consuming dishwashers
and washing machines
will lessen your water
consumption.
• Take advantage of
the energy efficient settings on appliances and avoid using the drying
options. Hang your clothes to dry and let dishes
air dry.
• Purchase biodegradable and non-petroleum
based cleaning products. They shouldn’t contain
enzymes, phosphates or bleaches which are
harmful to wildlife when they soak into rivers
and lakes from draining systems.
Furnish with Care
• To furnish your home with minimal impact on
the environment there are many décor options
available that are stylish and earth-friendly.
Many retailers are offering furniture made with
organic fabrics or reclaimed wood. Vintage and
antique furniture are also great alternatives.
You’ll be surprised by the stunning pieces you
may find!
• Refresh old furniture with new upholstery
instead of replacing couches and chairs and
consider donating any old pieces to charity or
used building material suppliers before sending it
to the landfill.
Eco-Friendly Flooring
• Opt for flooring made of recycled or salvaged
wood. Look for FSC-certified flooring products
that come from well-managed forestry operations or sustainable options like bamboo which is fast
growing and easily replenished.
• Hand-loomed rugs coloured with vegetable
dyes come in sustainable materials like hemp and
natural cotton.
• Be sure to choose adhesives without chemicals
that let off harmful toxins into the air.
Colour Your World Green
• Liven up your walls with eco-friendly paint.
Traditional paints contain volatile organic
compounds which contribute to global warming
and are harmful to your health. Opt for low-VOC
or VOC-free brands instead. Other solutions
include biodegradable, organic or recycled paints.
Breath of Fresh Air
• Finally, breathe easier. Grow a garden or add
some plants to your décor. Palms and ferns have
the ability to filter harmful chemicals from the
air.
• Use organic towels, sheets and bedding.
When harvested responsibly they contain fewer
chemicals that trigger allergies.
• Avoid the usage of aerosols and air fresheners.
They cause damage to the ozone layer that
protects us from UV rays from the sun.
Eco-friendly living can be easy, and our
decorating and lifestyle choices have a major
impact on the environment. Whether you make a
big or small change in your home, consider green
options. Eco-smart design allows you to style
your home with quality products and furnishings
that have minimal impact on the environment.
For more information on this topic visit
www.apartmenttherapy.com.