Are you confused by all the green design terminology you keep hearing and reading about such as global warming, sustainable forests, and environmentally friendly lifestyles?
Just what is a sustainable forest and why is it important to me? What, if anything, can I do about global warming? Is it going to cost me a lot of money to create an eco-friendly home? Going “green” can be as simple as reupholstering existing furniture pieces which will help reduce the amount of new lumber needed. Or simply replacing your existing light bulbs with the new, funny looking bulbs can reduce your energy use by as much as 75%. Read on for more tips on how to create your own “green design” home.
One of the quickest ways to reduce energy use in your home is to simply unplug all electronics when not being used. Even when turned off, these items continue to use power. Again, replacing your incandescent light bulbs with the compact fluorescent bulbs (CFBs) can save energy in your home. Better yet, try using as much natural daylight as possible. Place your furniture in positions near sources of light such as doors and windows. Simply opening up your window coverings will help. If possible, try adding a skylight to a hallway or bath that will brighten up an otherwise dark area.
Most of us are now familiar with the need to recycle. But did you know that, along with your paper and plastic products, you can also recycle old doors, cabinetry, flooring and fixtures from a remodel? Call a local shelter and ask about their policy regarding picking up these items and reusing them for themselves or donating to a needy family who's home is in need of repair.
Planning on redecorating? If your decorating plans include painting, choose low odor or no odor, low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints. These environmentally friendly paints come in just as many colors and finishes as standard paint but can reduce the amount of pollutants released into your home over time. Be sure to purchase the proper amount of paint for your job. Buying too much paint creates a problem when trying to dispose of the unused portion, not to mention wasting your hard earned money.
Reupholstering existing chairs and sofas is a very cost effective way to save not only money, but by reusing existing items you are on your way to creating an eco-friendly home. And you will have a custom piece that no one else has since you choose the fabric and trim yourself. Or try painting or re-staining an old coffee table or dining room table. If you must purchase new wood items, check to see if the items are manufactured using “green” methods. This means that nails and staples are used in place of glue that may be toxic, that any upholstery material is organic, latex or wool and the wood used is harvested in a sustainable manner. The seller will be able to tell you if the manufacturer has a seal stating that the wood is from a certified sustainable forest. It is easy now to find most wood items, including furniture and flooring, in more sustainable (fast growing) materials such as cork and bamboo. There are even computers being made now, encased in bamboo, that use up to 70% less power. What next??
Organic is a term we usually associate with food. But there are many household products that fall under the organic label now. Bedding, window treatments and accessories such as pillows, rugs and throws are all available. You can even purchase organic cookware made from sand. These do not emit the dangerous odors that can be associated with the old non-stick cookware. Organic items can cost a bit more but isn't a cleaner and healthier home what we are all looking for?
Other very simple and affordable ways to go green are: replacing your paraffin candles with soy candles that will give you a cleaner, longer burn thereby lowering the amount of soot and smoke released into your home. Try reducing the amount of paper you use in your home in the form of paper towels, plates and napkins. Switch these out for reusable acrylic or glass dishes; use microfiber cloths in place of paper towels for cleaning. And cloth napkins at the dinner table not only look prettier but will reduce paper usage.
If you are looking for ways to help “green” up your community, buy locally. Many of us don't realize the costs and energy use in transporting materials from distant areas. Buying locally will no only reduce energy usage but will also support your local economy.
By Renewing, Reusing and Recycling we can all do our small part to create a healthier environment for our families and for future generations.
