Celebrate Earth Day—7 Ways to Green Your Home

Replace Paper Towels – While we all love the convenience of paper towels, they can be very wasteful. In fact, used paper towels cannot be recycled. Switch from paper towels to reusable microfiber towels or retired washcloths. Repurposing these towels will save you money considering you won’t run out as quickly. Compost – This is an easy way to reduce waste and recycle nutrients back into the soil. We recommend starting a compost pile in your backyard where food scraps can be disposed of. While not all items are biodegradable, be sure to investigate what can and cannot be composted. Making this a habit helps reduce your carbon footprint by making sustainable choices.  
 
Switch to LED Light Bulbs – LED light bulbs use less energy to produce the same amount of light as a natural light bulb. They are also much more affordable and contain no mercury, making for a much safer option. Consider using this as an alternative light source in your home. Another bonus – they have a longer lifespan than regular light bulbs.   
 
Metal Straws – If you are someone who enjoys the convenience of a straw, switch to using metal ones. They are made of durable stainless steel that can be washed and reused, ultimately saving the amount of plastic that is used in a regular straw which is a major source of pollution. There’s also no denying that a metal straw looks much more aesthetically pleasing in your kitchen.
 
Switch to Eco-friendly Cleaning Products – When it comes to cleaning your home, be mindful of which cleaning products have been sourced properly. Take some extra time to read the labels and search for eco-friendly products. These products help reduce air and water pollution, making them an environmentally friendly choice. Think Before Shopping– We all love affordable clothing. This is why fast fashion has gained so much popularity over the years. But sometimes, we forget just how harmful it can be for the environment. The speed at which clothing is produced comes at a cost to the environment. Fast fashion products use toxic textile dyes and plastic fibers that contribute to pollution. In fact, the fast fashion industry is one of the leading carbon-emissions manufacturers. When shopping for new clothes, look for higher-quality pieces that are comfortable and will last longer. Quality over quantity is the name of the sustainability game.     
 
Buy Less, Consume Less – If you take anything away from this, it’s to be conscious of your consumption. A good rule of thumb is to keep track of what you need, and only buy as much as you will use. Avoiding impulsive purchases will save money, prevent waste, and contribute to your own satisfaction. There are several ways to live more sustainability. Implementing these changes in your home provides long-term satisfaction and the environment will thank you. If you’d like to learn more about owning a Shea Home, click here.