6 easy ways to make your home more 'sustainable'

You might think that living a more sustainable lifestyle is harder than you think, but it's not necessarily the case. You don't have to put a lot of effort into making your home eco-friendly. I just have to think about it a little more.

And you might already be doing it! "Have you already switched to reusable straws and coffee cups?" wonderful!

Then here are some ideas to make your home even more sustainable. This won't change the global environment overnight, but small actions add up to create big changes.

Sourcing Decorations Locally

While researching online and ordering mass-produced items from mass retailers is easy, check out your local vendors first. Supporting local craftsmen not only helps boost the local economy, but it's also a way to make your home more sustainable.

Sustainable Connections, a nonprofit that aims to create economically prosperous and sustainable communities, reports that shopping locally can significantly reduce the environmental impact of shopping.

By buying locally and hauling less, communities with local businesses can travel 26% less bike miles and reduce their impact on climate change.

So where to find a local vendor? Michelle Murphy, materials and sustainability specialist at MG2, a global sustainability-conscious architecture, design, strategy and branding studio, has some ideas.

Social media such as Instagram and Facebook can help you get local knowledge. Search for location tags or ask community members if they know of local shops, artists, farmers markets, and more (don't forget Facebook Marketplace!).

If you need to find something online, Murphy recommends shopping on sites like Etsy to support small businesses.

“If you filter by location to find craftsmen in your community, you can often find products directly from them without having to ship them overseas yourself,” she says. Even large retailers like Amazon may allow users to search for vendors in their area.

Do Your Own Research

If you can't buy from a local vendor and have to rely on mail order, be sure to do your own research.

"It's essential to understand the origin of whatever you're buying, and make sure you're buying from a manufacturer as close to home as possible," Murphy says.

Check out the company's FAQ page, read the product description of what you're looking to buy, or call them directly to ask!

“Many product sites now have this information at their fingertips, and sustainability in particular has become part of brand values ​​and consumers expect it.”

Buy Secondhand

"This is the most sustainable way to go about your carbon footprint," she says.

A good place to start is visiting antique shops and vintage markets. You may have to drive a little farther than the center of town, but buying something someone once loved is a more conscious way of shopping.

Avoid Certain Chemicals

"The environment we build and the products we buy contain many chemicals that end up in our living environment. As mindful consumers, we want to avoid them as much as possible," warns Murphy.

One such chemical is flame retardants, once considered essential for keeping your home safe, but they actually pose a major health risk. According to the scientific journal Scientific American, "Studies show that flame retardants in furniture leach into your home and accumulate in your body. Chemicals also end up in rivers and aquatic life. "And that.

Murphy recommends using the UL Spot Database to eliminate these products from your home. “You can think of it as a consumer report on indoor air quality and health, and you can search for a number of products. she says.

For example, mattresses have the CentiPureUS indoor air quality certification, which should be listed on their website.

Eliminate plastic bottles for the planet! 20 fashionable my bottles that are popular with the latest & women

"Que Factory" "Que Bottle 530ml" que Factory ¥ 3,278 See details on Amazon

The innovative spiral design is eye-catching Drink bottles have landed in Japan! "que Bottle" is made of 100% BPA-free food-grade silicone (BPA is an industrial chemical substance that is used in some plastics and has been pointed out to have an impact on health). A product that does not use any plastic and is friendly to people and the environment. There are two types, L size (530ml) and S size (355ml).

"Canteen" "Coke Sil 270ml" CANTEEN ¥1,936See details on Amazon

A stainless steel bottle born in Florida, USA, developed with the concept of "Goodbye, plastic bottle" is called "Canteen". "Corksil" of "N". The sides are flat and easy to hold, and the bottom has a non-slip silicone. In addition, the unique 3-layer structure prevents condensation and keeps cold for 25 hours and warm for 12 hours, which is a surprising feature (*US standards). In 2016, it won the Red Dot Design Award, which is sent to excellent product design.

"Momo Concept" "Lupina Tumbler 400ml" MOMO CONCEPT (Momo Concept) ¥ 2,970 See details on Amazon

"MOMO CONCEPT" shines with a design inspired by California and a design that combines the beauty of Japan concept)". The photogenic “Lupinus” series, which was born with the image of the shining light and nature, is easy to grasp, easy to take out from the bag, and has excellent heat and cold insulation. It weighs about 220g and is lightweight and convenient to carry. I'm happy with the rich pastel colors that brighten my mood!

"Kinto" "Day Off Tumbler 500ml" KINTO ¥3,300 See details on Amazon

"Day Off Tumbler" made for those who want to spend their holidays freely and actively while relaxing. The vacuum double structure keeps the temperature and flavor of the drink for a long time, and the rounded handle is easy to grip and easy to carry. Powder-coated to prevent scratches, the design makes you want to carry it around for short walks or long trips. The mouthfeel is gentle on the palate and prevents ice cubes and hot drinks from squirting out. Available in 8 bright colors reminiscent of resorts and fashion items.

Doshisha's "mosh! Bottle 450ml" DOSHISHA ¥1,800 See details on Amazon

The "mosh! Bottle" has a cute retro shape with a milk bottle motif, and is similar to a regular 500ml PET bottle. Almost the same size and easy to carry. Vacuum insulation two-layer structure keeps heat (60°C or higher) and cold (11°C or lower) for up to 12 hours. The lid is made of silicon rubber, so even women can easily open it. In addition to the 7 color variations, there are also sizes of 350ml and 450ml, so choose the one that fits your lifestyle.

"KAILH" "Sports Bottle 500ml" KAILH ￥2,199 See details on Amazon

If you have a "Sports Bottle" with a metallic color that looks great, it will be a hot topic. This bottle has a double insulation structure that keeps it cold for a maximum of a whole day and keeps hot water warm for 12 hours. The screw-type cap is easy to open and has a leak-proof function. With large capacities of 500ml, 750ml, and 1000ml, it is recommended for gyms and outdoors where you need plenty of hydration.

"Mia" "Wide Mouth 591ml" MiiR (Mia) ¥5,280 See details on Amazon

Every year, "Mia" donates 3% of corporate profits to support projects in regions in need around the world. there is It is used for activities such as preventing water shortages and environmental destruction, and by purchasing the product, we can indirectly participate in those projects. As the name “Wide Mouth” suggests, this bottle has a wide opening that can hold large ice cubes and is easy to clean. In addition to being safe and BPA-free, the design is simple yet endearing, and the abundant color variations of all 8 colors based on the theme of "colors overflowing in the world" are also attractive.

"Bruno" "My Tumbler 350ml" BRUNO (Bruno) ¥3,290See details on Amazon

Bruno's pure white bottle like this enamel can keep hot and cold for a long time. Drinks are delicious even after time has passed. It weighs only 170g and is slim, so you can easily put it in your bag and carry it around easily. The design that says "My" in big letters is also nice. Eco life with literally "my bottle"!

"W&P" "Porter Glass Bottle 473ml" W&P ¥7,196 See details on Amazon

Brand "W&P" designed by Josh and Eric, who are active in Brooklyn. "Poter" is one of the edgy collections of two best friends. This bottle is only for cold storage, and the durable, lightweight glass is protected by a silicone sleeve, so there is no need to worry about it breaking if dropped. It's also made from BPA-free glass for your peace of mind. Simple and stylish design, easy to use anywhere ◎

"Thermos" Mobile Mug One-touch Open 350ml THERMOS ￥2,980See details on Amazon

Thermos' best-selling mobile bottle comes in a cute pastel color and a one-touch open/close type. The thermos structure has high heat and cold insulation, and the lid with a lock ring shuts out leakage when carrying. The spout can be easily removed with a light push, and it is hygienic because it can be washed in every corner. In addition to a wide variety of colors, you can also choose the size of 350ml, 500ml, 600ml, and 700ml.

"CB Japan" "Kahua Coffee Bottle 420ml" CB JAPAN (CB Japan) ¥ 1,618 See details on Amazon

For coffee lovers, we definitely recommend the coffee bottle with Teflon TM processing on the inside. Kahua'. With this bottle, you can enjoy delicious coffee anywhere, such as while traveling or driving. It keeps the right temperature whether it's hot or iced, and the inside is structured to prevent dirt and odors from transferring. Available in 5 metallic colors and a wide variety of sizes and shapes, it is also recommended as a gift for coffee lovers.

"Vitantonio" "Twisty Plus 400ml" Vitantonio (Vitantonio) ￥2,860See details on Amazon

A teapot and tumbler in one that allows you to enjoy the freshly brewed taste and aroma of your favorite tea on the go. "Twisty Plus". The point is that the tea leaves and the extracted tea can be separated, and you can keep your favorite strength. The double-layered structure of the bottle keeps it from getting hot when you hold it, and prevents condensation. The bottle is BPA-free and made from the same material used in baby bottles.

"Francfranc" "Chouchou Mini Bottle Flower 140ml" Francfranc ¥1,980See details on Amazon

The 140ml stainless steel bottle, which has a cute color and pattern typical of "Francfranc," is also recommended. . A convenient size that can be used in a variety of situations, such as when going out with a mini bag, commuting, or walking. The outer box is also stylish and recommended as a gift.

"Milk Fed" "Logo Pattern Drink Bottle 350ml" MILKFED. (Milk Fed) ¥3,520See details on Amazon

How about a bottle with the logo of the steady brand for the girl generation, "MILKFED."? The allover logo pattern and pale colors are cute and clean, and it comes in two colors: pink and purple. We are particular about the shape of the lip to make it easy on the palate, and it is perfect for keeping warm and cold. Lunch boxes and cooler bags are also available, so you can spend a wonderful lunch time with the series!

Toa Kinzoku's "Poke Mini 140ml" Toa Kinzoku ¥1,200 See details on Amazon

The ultra-compact "Poke Mini" fits comfortably in your pocket. Although it is the world's smallest class with a height of about 14 cm, it has a double vacuum structure and is perfect for keeping warm and cold. Perfect for short walks, water for taking medicine, and a little hydration. It is very convenient because it does not get in the way even if you put it in a small bag such as a handbag or sacoche.

"World Create" "Nano Silicone Bottle 180ml" WORLD CREATE, INC. (World Create) ¥ 1,715 See details on Amazon

This bottle from "World Create" is a simple and very easy-to-use item. The body is made of soft silicone, so after drinking, you can roll it up and store it compactly. If you freeze the whole bottle, it can be used as an ice pack, so you can carry it with your lunch.

"Afternoon Tea" "Vacuum Portable Mug Cup 230ml" Afternoon Tea (Afternoon Tea) $3,080.00See details on Amazon

The "Afternoon Tea" portable mug is also recommended. The compact 230ml drinkable size makes it easy to carry, and the completely sealed structure means it won't leak even if you put it in your bag! A 2-way type that can be used compactly by removing the drinking spout. With a modest logo and simple white color, you can use it anywhere you choose.

Doshisha's "Nekotan Senka Tumbler 320ml" DOSHISHA (Doshisha) ¥ 2,200 See details on Amazon

Good news for cat tongues nationwide! "Doushisha" has introduced the "Nekotan Senka Tumbler" for people who don't like hot drinks. If you put a hot drink in it, it will reach a temperature that is easy to drink in about 3 minutes, and it will keep that temperature for about 1 hour. It is possible to open and close the drinking spout by sliding the lid. The caliber is as wide as 8 cm, and the parts can be disassembled, so you can wash every corner. Available in four colors: green, pink, black and white.

Doshisha's "Furu-Furu Bottle ON ℃ Zone 360ml" DOSHISHA (Doshisha) ¥ 1,116 See details on Amazon

Another unique bottle from "Doshisha"!　When you put a drink in the "Furu-Furu Bottle" and shake it lightly for 3 seconds, the surface becomes cool and warm. Due to its hollow double structure, it does not have heat or cold insulation functions, but it can be used as a warmer on cold days and as an ice pack on hot days. Appeared in 8 color lineups.

"Eco Coffee Cup" "Cup Saucer 400ml" Ecoffee Cup ¥ 2,530 See details on Amazon

Did you know that 100 billion coffee cups are thrown away as garbage every year? Most of them are made of plastic and cannot be reused, placing a heavy burden on the environment. The “Ecoffee Cup” portable cup was born to solve that problem. Made from a new type of reusable bamboo fiber (bamboo fiber), cornstarch, amino acid-derived resin, etc., it is environmentally friendly, practical and stylish. Heat and cold resistance are perfect, so you can rest assured.

Consider Materials

Not all materials are created equal. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style.

"If you really want your home to be sustainable, you should consider natural materials," Murphy says. Murphy recommends choosing wool, bamboo, cotton, and linen whenever possible.

Other simple changes, such as choosing real wool over non-biodegradable man-made wool, are not only better for the environment, but they also last longer in most cases, so you don't have to replace them as often (so vintage). Furniture is popular again!).

"If it's locally sourced wool, even better," Murphy said. Similarly, choosing silicone over vinyl, the world's third most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer, is a greener alternative.

Use reusable items

According to the environmental group NRDC, the world produces 300 million tons of plastic each year, half of which is single-use items.

Common household items such as plastic bottles, plastic wrap, and parchment paper are major contributors. Making a conscious effort to use reusable items as much as possible is an easy way to show a little love for the environment.

If you've already switched to reusable straws, why not take it one step further? For example, replace cookie sheets with reusable silicone baking sheets, use refillable water bottles instead of single-use bottles, or choose reusable paper towels to reduce waste.

When these eco-friendly items reach the end of their life, dispose of them responsibly.

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Translation: Mitsuko KannoFrom House beautiful US

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