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Smart Ways to Green Your Lifestyle

Healthy Home Wellness

08 March 2020
Living a more sustainable lifestyle doesn’t have to be expensive or even time-consuming. In fact, some minor changes can actually cut expenses and have a positive impact on your health and quality of life. Making your daily routine more efficient can be as simple as learning some healthy basics, modifying your habits, and making informed choices. Here are five easy improvements:
1. Get into the habit of recycling
Recycling waste, such as plastics, paper, and glass, costs almost nothing and it preserves natural resources and keeps trash out of landfills. When shopping for new products, look for items made from recycled content. Also remember to safely dispose of electronics and any hazardous household goods, such as paint, chemicals, and unused prescriptions.
2. Compost for a zero-waste kitchen
Instead of using the garbage disposal or tossing food scraps, compost them. Composting keeps trash out of landfills and provides a natural way to enrich garden soil. Even unexpected things, like wooden spoons, dryer lint, and cardboard Q-tips, can be compostable. Learn which household items you can compost according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or check Master Composter for additional tips.
3. Eliminate harmful airborne toxins
Chemicals in common household products, including shower curtains, cookware, and furniture, can seep into your living space. Those toxins compromise your indoor air quality, which can cause health problems and exacerbate some respiratory ailments. Carefully consider what you bring home, and opt for natural ingredients when possible.
Start reading product labels to find non-toxic alternatives for paint, pesticides, cleaners, furniture, and building materials. Also consider how the product is packaged, and whether the carton can be recycled or if it contains synthetic ingredients.
4. Clean naturally with simple household items
Though we associate that stout lemon scent with cleanliness, such odors usually stem from cleaning products loaded with harsh chemicals that can be toxic to people, pets and the planet. Opt for green-labeled cleaning products or mix up your own using non-toxic baking soda (an abrasive), vinegar (a disinfectant), and lemon (a deodorizer). These alternatives are accessible, inexpensive, and better for your health.
5. Reconsider your transit options
Re-examine your public transportation options and consider taking quick trips to places close by. Biking, wheeling, or walking are all essentially free and benefit both your wallet and your wellbeing. Enjoying some fresh air between errands is one of the best ways to live a more sustainable lifestyle. If you can’t abandon your car entirely, explore ridesharing, commuter options, or find easy ways to reduce auto trips.

Portia Green, REALTOR®

Portia’s clients all have a similar story. Most likely, you met her huddled around a tablet at the dinner table yet she feels like a friend. Her personable nature and easy going approach attract Sellers and Buyers alike, in what can be a stressful and emotionally charged event. A talented REALTOR® with 15 years experience, Portia is just as excited about real estate today as she was with her first transaction. She remains ever-committed to helping her clients find their place in the world and helping busy people navigate this crazy real estate market like a pro.

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