Eco-Friendly Loft Products: Sustainable Living in Urban Spaces
Living in an urban loft can present challenges when trying to live sustainably. Lofts are known for their large, open floor plans and ample natural light from huge windows.
However, the concrete and steel materials used in their construction, along with the lack of green space, can make them energy-inefficient and wasteful compared to other types of homes.
With some thoughtful choices though, city dwellers can transform their lofts into eco-friendly urban oases. Here are some products and ideas to help make apartment living greener.
Contents
- 1 Energy Efficient Appliances
- 2 Smart Power Strips
- 3 Reusable Air Conditioner Filters
- 4 Indoor Composting
- 5 Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
- 6 Organic or Recycled Furnishings
- 7 LED Light Bulbs
- 8 Indoor Herb Gardens
- 9 Air Purifying Plants
- 10 Farmer’s Market Delivery
- 11 Reusable Produce Bags
- 12 Bamboo Kitchen Utensils
- 13 Stainless Steel Containers
- 14 Rechargeable Batteries
- 15 Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies
- 16 Responsibly Sourced Coffee
- 17 Shop Second-Hand First
- 18 Bike Share Programs
- 19 Public Transportation
- 20 Final Words
Energy Efficient Appliances
When old appliances need replacing, look for Energy Star rated models which use significantly less electricity and water. For refrigerators, choose ones with bottom freezers which require less energy to operate. Front-loading washing machines cut water usage by 50% compared to top-loaders. Compact dishwashers can wash a full load with just 3-4 gallons. Pair them with an on-demand tankless water heater to further reduce energy demands.
Smart Power Strips
Plugging electronics into smart power strips allows you to completely cut phantom load when devices are turned off. This wasted energy can account for 5-10% of electricity use. Advanced “green” strips even monitor energy use, calculate your cost savings, and cut power automatically when not needed.
Reusable Air Conditioner Filters
Save money on HVAC costs by switching to washable electrostatic furnace and AC filters. Some even come with a lifetime warranty. Just rinse them out monthly rather than replacing disposable filters. This keeps unit efficiency high and reduces landfill waste.
Indoor Composting
Dedicate a countertop container to collect food scraps for composting. No need to worry about attracting pests or odors. Carbon filters built into the bins trap smells. Some models even automatically dry and grind compost into fertilizer pellets. Then you can nurture plants or share with community gardens.
Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
Skip using paper towels and instead clean grease, dust, and spills with reusable microfiber cloths. They are ultra-absorbent and contain fibers that attract and trap dirt. This leaves surfaces streak free and clean using just water. Reduce waste further by replacing paper napkins with microfiber versions.
Organic or Recycled Furnishings
When shopping for loft furnishings, buy products made from recycled, organic, or sustainable materials. Look for items like Pinterest-worthy decor made from reclaimed wood, as well as organic cotton bedding and rugs. Even composite counters and floors made partly of recycled glass, paper, and plastics are available.
LED Light Bulbs
Swap out incandescent bulbs for LEDs which use at least 75% less energy. They last years longer as well. Put them on timers or install motion sensors so lights turn on only when needed. Maximize natural light during the day by opening curtains. Place mirrors across from windows to reflect more sun indoors.
Indoor Herb Gardens
Bring green elements indoors by planting a windowsill herb garden. Consider easy-to-grow varieties like basil, oregano, chives, parsley, and mint. Herbs thrive in compact spaces without full sun exposure. You’ll have fresh ingredients to flavor cooking while improving air quality.
Air Purifying Plants
Further purify indoor air by decorating with houseplants shown to filter pollutants. Top oxygenators include snake plant, aloe vera, English ivy, peace lilies, and spider plants. They come in different sizes to accent living spaces or desktops. Grouping plants together boosts air cleaning power.
Farmer’s Market Delivery
Shop for locally grown produce delivered straight to your door to reduce carbon emissions from long distance food transport. Services like BoxGreens offer organic fruits and veggies from farms within a few hundred miles. Delivery boxes can be customized so you get only what’s fresh and in-season.
Reusable Produce Bags
Always say no to plastic when shopping for fruits, veggies, and bulk items. Carry reusable mesh or cotton bags. Some feature drawstrings or Velcro seals to easily transport goods home. They fold up small to fit in a pocket or purse.
Bamboo Kitchen Utensils
Swap out old plastic utensils for sustainable bamboo versions. Available products include cutting boards, cooking spoons, tongs, whisks, and more. Bamboo grows rapidly without chemical fertilizers, plus it’s naturally antibacterial and compostable at end of life.
Stainless Steel Containers
Pack leftovers in stainless steel containers with tight sealing lids for grabbing meals on-the-go. This avoids chemical leaching from plastic Tupperware. Opt for stainless over plastic water bottles as well. Carry a reusable mug to coffee shops. Some even come with lids and offer built-in strainers for tea.
Rechargeable Batteries
Cut down on single use batteries by purchasing rechargeable versions. Look for Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) over Lithium-Ion options which can’t be recycled. Charge batteries using a solar powered battery charger placed near a window.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies
Whip up DIY green cleaning solutions at home. For example, mix baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice for an abrasive scrub. Create an all-purpose spray with vinegar, water, and essential oils. Use citrus peels as deodorizers. Microfiber cloths cut chemicals further.
Responsibly Sourced Coffee
Enjoy coffee without the side of habitat destruction by choosing fair trade and shade grown organic brands. These practices support bird conservation and family farmers. Brew it in a permanent filter or French press. Compost the grounds to nourish your plants.
Shop Second-Hand First
Before making any new purchases, see what you can find used first at vintage shops, flea markets or online exchanges like Craigslist and Freecycle. Give quality used items new life. Bonus points for upcycling materials into DIY creations.
Take advantage of city bike sharing programs to cover short trips. No need to worry about storage or maintenance. Many features convenient stations around downtown areas. Cycling is emissions free, reduces traffic, and gets you moving.
Public Transportation
Subway and bus networks crisscross most urban areas today. Plots routes to attractions on mass transit first before considering a cab ride. Also investigate discounts for passes and Loyalty programs to save money. The more people ride, the more expanded service typically becomes.
Final Words
While loft living presents some challenges, with a little effort city slickers can tread lightly. Follow these tips to do your part in building a cleaner, greener community. Small changes made by individuals add up to substantial positive impacts when multiplied across populations. By supporting ethical brands, decreasing waste, and using energy responsibly, urban dwellers can feel good transforming their living spaces into ecologically friendly oases.
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