We are witnessing an increasing environmental awareness, and the quest for sustainability has never been more critical. As climate change continues to loom on the global stage, the concept of “how to make your home more sustainable” has become a practical and impactful solution. Today, more than ever, homeowners are embracing the idea of transforming their living spaces into self-sustainable ecological homes for the sake of the planet but also for the long-term benefits they offer.
Creating a self-sustainable ecological home represents a combination of innovation, responsible living, and a commitment to reducing one’s carbon footprint. It is a journey that encompasses many practices and technologies, all aimed at achieving a more balanced and eco-friendly lifestyle. There are various strategies to consider, from energy-efficient appliances and solar panels to green building materials.
Whether you are a seasoned environmentalist or just beginning your sustainability journey, the insights here will help you make informed decisions about how to make your home more sustainable and better understand the concept of a sustainable home.
What is a sustainable home?
For over 40 years, scientists have warned us about the impact of climate change on the planet, but it wasn’t until 1987 that the concept of “sustainable development” was first introduced. A report called “Our Common Future,” conducted by the World Commission on Environment and Development, explained the concept as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
Since then, the United Nations and the governments of different countries have been intrigued by the causes of climate change and researched to establish them. The United Nations discovered greenhouse gas emissions are the most significant reason for global warming. Around 75% of these emissions result from using fossil fuels such as petrol, coal, and gas. The European Union states that 36% of greenhouse gas emissions are caused by buildings, from construction to demolition. This is why the concepts of sustainable architecture and homes, in particular, have emerged. But what exactly is a sustainable home, and how to make your home more sustainable?
A sustainable home is commonly known as a residential structure designed and built to minimize its environmental impact. At the same time, it maximizes efficiency and long-term viability. It usually incorporates eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally responsible construction practices. Sustainable homes aim to reduce resource consumption, lower energy bills, and promote a healthier living environment.
Updates that will make your home more sustainable
Now that we have a grasp of what a sustainable home is, a common question that arises is how to make your home more sustainable. Our homes are already built for many of us, and starting from scratch to create a sustainable home is out of the question. Still, there are many updates you can incorporate into your home to make it more eco-friendly. Most of these updates are wallet-friendly and will save you big bucks in the long run.
1. Install Energy-efficient lighting
When considering how to make your home more sustainable, you should start with small steps. Installing energy-efficient lighting is an excellent way to start; it is easy to implement and affordable. LED lights use up to 90% less energy than conventional bulbs and helps the average consumer save around $225 on energy bill per year.
To start your journey towards a more sustainable living environment, conscious and responsible behavior is required. Remember to always turn off the lights in the rooms you do not need, and if possible, opt for sheer curtains. They will help you enjoy natural light, and you won’t need to rely that much on artificial lighting.
If you’re just starting the process of designing your home, consider opting for large, ample windows, skylights, or even glass doors. They will help naturally light your house and decrease the energy costs. The position of the windows is also an essential aspect to consider. People living in cooler climates could naturally heat their homes during winter with the help of South-facing windows.
2. Reuse and Recycle
Another excellent choice when thinking about how to make your home more sustainable is to reuse and recycle old materials. Renovating your home? Instead of throwing away old fixtures, cabinets, or flooring, consider salvaging and repurposing them. Reclaimed wood, for example, can be transformed into beautiful, rustic furniture or decorative elements. Vintage fixtures can add character and charm to your space. Giving these materials a second life reduces your landfill waste and creates unique, sustainable pieces for your home.
Upgrade your home’s interior by incorporating upcycled decor and furniture. Thrift stores, flea markets, and online marketplaces offer unique pieces with character. Consider refurbishing old furniture with a fresh coat of paint or reupholstering chairs and sofas with sustainable fabrics.
3. Use Low VOC Paints
If you’re considering giving your home a fresh coat of paint, opt for low-VOC paints. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can easily evaporate into the air, potentially causing harm to health and the environment. They are commonly found in many household products, including paints, varnishes, and cleaning agents.
In the case of VOCs, the harmful chemicals are being released into the air long after the paint has been applied. Upgrading your home with low-VOC paints is a sustainable choice that benefits your health and the environment. You can transform your house into a more sustainable and eco-friendly space by improving indoor air quality, reducing your carbon footprint, and contributing to a healthier living environment.
4. Upgrade your insulation
Another efficient update on how to make your home more sustainable is upgrading your insulation. One of the primary reasons to upgrade your insulation is to improve energy efficiency. Proper insulation helps regulate the temperature inside your home, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This means less reliance on heating and cooling systems, lowering energy bills and reducing carbon emissions. Upgrading your insulation can significantly decrease your home’s energy consumption and environmental footprint.
Maintaining a comfortable temperature requires less energy when your home is well-insulated. This reduced energy consumption saves money and decreases the demand for fossil fuels, a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.
5. Consider renewable energy systems
If you really want to commit to making your home more sustainable, check out the renewable energy systems available. Technology has made significant strides toward clean energy technology, and these systems are becoming increasingly accessible.
Renewable energy resources refer to energy produced from natural sources such as sun, water, or wind. Among the systems that use renewable energy we can name solar panels, biomass boilers, ground source heat pumps, and air source heat pumps. Investing in renewable energy systems might seem like a substantial upfront expense, but it pays off in the long run. Solar panels, for instance, can provide free electricity once installed, resulting in lower energy bills.
Wrap-up
There are many ways to make your home more sustainable. These easy updates can significantly reduce your environmental footprint and create a greener living space. So, when considering how to make your home more sustainable, remember that even small changes can make a big difference. Take action today and contribute to a more eco-friendly future by incorporating these five updates into your home.
