Sustainable living is a term that has come to mean many things to many people. In its simplest form, however, it refers to the choices we make on a day-to-day basis that contribute to a greener, healthier, and long-term livable world.
But what does that mean in practice? Consider the basics:
- Energy-friendly: The demand is growing for products and materials that contribute to more energy-efficient spaces. These can range from building features which naturally cool, heat, or insulate an environment; technologies that favour electricity over fossil fuels; or products made via green and eco-friendly manufacturing methods. Factoring energy-usage into any decision not only lowers one’s carbon footprint but lowers energy bills and supports innovation.
- Renewable resources: Living in a world of finite energy sources and raw materials means being more conscious about what we use (and reuse) in our daily lives. Herein, sustainable living is about promoting the use of renewable sources and making it easier, more efficient, and cost-effective to live greener.
- Waste-free living: It’s difficult to eliminate waste from our every-day lives entirely, but we can get close. Advances in recycling, composting, and other re-use technologies make it easier to divert waste from our landfills, while greener construction methods are working to eliminate waste at its many sources. Want some suggestions you can apply today? Here’s a list of 10 home items you can reuse time and time again.
- Natural integration: The health benefits of natural light cannot be understated. At the same time, few can discount the rejuvenating effects of being connected to nature. As such, there is an increasing movement to incorporate living elements (e.g., green walls, rooftop gardens, etc.) and natural highlights (e.g., skylights, green spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, etc.) in offices, homes, and public facilities.
- Greener practices: There are many ways we can reduce our eco-footprint. And whether it’s small actions like carpooling or buying eco-friendly products, or larger initiatives such as eating less meat or switching to renewable energy, every action counts. Making sustainable changes takes a little effort, but the payoff is a planet we can all enjoy for generations to come.
The list of sustainable living tips can easily take up a book. At the end of the day, the most important step is to take an honest look at your daily activities for ways to use fewer resources and leave a positive impact on the environment around you.
“Every industry approaches the issue of sustainable living in its own way,” says Marco Ferrazzo, Manager with Artistic Skylights. “For us, it’s about promoting products that help save energy, promote a safe and healthy lifestyle, and help clients connect with their natural environment.”
Discover the latest sustainable skylight designs and materials for home, office, or industrial properties by visiting Artistic Skylights.
