Sustainable Living: How To Be More Eco-Conscious When Living Alone

Living a more sustainable life can start at home, and while it may be easier when you have a partner or someone who can motivate you, doing so by yourself is often easier than it may seem.

Consumers across the globe have shifted their understanding of what it takes to be more eco-conscious. Studies have shown that a growing number of consumers globally are willing to sacrifice certain products and services to achieve improved sustainability in recent years.

Today, around 85% of people have indicated that they have changed their shopping behavior to become more sustainable. What’s more, this trend is not only visible with younger generations, but even older people – Baby Boomers and Generation Z – are now more open to spending more on sustainable products.

Living alone comes with its benefits, yet in a similar vein, it does present a wide range of challenges as well, especially as the cost of living has risen over the last couple of years.

Despite the financial and economic headwinds, creating a positive and more environmentally conscious lifestyle doesn’t require a lot of sacrifice, and it can start with the smallest change of habit in and around your apartment or home.

Being more sustainable when living alone

Often when we talk about sustainability and being more aware of the impact we have on our direct environment, we tend to think of making big changes such as installing solar panels or buying an electric car. Although these efforts can make a difference, making frugal changes to your spending habits, dietary intake, and even choice in products you purchase can go a long way as well.

Here are some considerations if you’re looking to become more sustainable as an adult living by yourself.

Reduce your energy consumption 

One of the first places to start is to look at your daily energy consumption and pinpoint where you can minimize electrical usage.

Start with simple things such as switching out lightbulbs for more energy-efficient options. Unplug appliances that are regularly used, or even install LED lights in the rooms you use most.

You can also turn off your water heater during the evenings, or when you are away from home to conserve more energy.

Shop for more eco-friendly cleaning products 

Research shows that per capita detergent consumption in the United States is around 10 kilograms per year. From detergents, cleaning solutions, and even body wash liquids, a high percentage of these end up in water treatment facilities, streams, and freshwater sources.

One can perhaps look at using fewer cleaning solutions in and around the house, or perhaps opt to purchase more environmentally-friendly products. Some of these products contain less harmful chemicals that are good for the environment and are gentle on your skin, clothes, and furniture.

Purchase locally sourced products 

Thousands of the products in our grocery stores are imported from different states and countries, all of which contribute to a larger carbon footprint.

Shopping for more local products, from produce to clothing, furniture, and even homeware means you’re helping to minimize the carbon impact these products have on the environment. More so, you’ll be able to support local merchants, farmers, and business owners at the same time.

Some grocery stores will have their range of eco-friendly products, opt for these for a more affordable option, or see which merchants stock locally sourced products in their stores.

Be more mindful of your ventilation

Make an effort to minimize the use of indoor heating and ventilation, including fans. While these appliances may help keep your home warm during the winter, and cool throughout the summer, consider how you can improve the ventilation and insulation of your home.

In the winter, use extra blankets on your bed, add more rugs in and around your home, or add curtains to windows. In the summertime, keep windows and doors open to have improved ventilation.

Recycle garbage 

Many cities across the country and the world are now initiating widespread recycling programs to help promote a greener lifestyle and waste management.

Consider how you can separate trash that ends up in your bin, from paper, plastic, glass, and aluminum. Research whether there are local recycling facilities in your neighborhood or community where you can drop off your recyclable materials.

Buy thrifted pieces 

Another simple way to save money, and minimize your consumer impact on the environment is to consider purchasing sustainable or thrifted items from local hospice and charity stores. These stores stock a wide variety of products, such as clothing, shoes, furniture, and even homeware.

Not only are these items a lot more affordable than having to purchase their brand new, but you can slightly alter the consumer cycle of some of these products.

Watch what you’re consuming 

Consider the type of products you are buying and putting in your body. A lot of what we purchase today is either genetically modified or has undergone rigorous manufacturing processes.

Be more mindful of your produce, look out for fresh and organic produce at your local market or supermarket chain. If you come across a new range of products that claim to be organic and environmentally conscious, do a bit of research to see how much these companies are doing to help minimize their effect on the environment.

Final thoughts 

Being more sustainable takes a bit of work at first, but once you understand how you can lower your carbon footprint, and be more mindful of your health and the environment, you’ll be able to notice a significant change in your quality of life. Take some time to do a bit of research, and shop around for brands that resonate with your sustainable journey.