A Sustainable Lifestyle

We hear about it, see it on TV and read about it in magazines – sustainable living is no longer just a hip (and hefty) lifestyle choice. But what does it really mean and what are the benefits?

Here’s what you can do as an everyday homeowner to take better care of the environment, starting with your patch of the earth.

(Hint – it’s easier than you think!)

What Does a Sustainable Lifestyle Mean?

It’s more than ditching plastic straws and installing LED lightbulbs.  Sustainable living means making personal choices to use reuse whatever you can possible and cut down on waste, making use of the planet’s resources and the sun’s energy.

The use of less plastic and less toxins in our day to day living without a doubt offers many positive health benefits, not to mention is more economical long term.

But ultimately, it’s about conserving the environment for our children and future generations.  

Sustainable Houses – What Should I Look For when I Purchase?

Every homeowner we know is conscious of the running costs of their home!  And that’s why sustainable homes are top of buyer’s bucket lists.

Solar energy is a concept that’s steadily gaining momentum across Melbourne – why not use Mother Nature’s gift to reduce that dreaded energy bill?

As well as powering your own home, you can feed extra energy back into the grid and get paid for it!

Natural light reduces the need for electric lighting inside the home.  Oversized windows, skylights and glass doors are essential for a light, bright and airy home.

Harvesting rainwater can literally save you hundreds of dollars each year.  Homes with rainwater tanks are in demand: this water can be used for drinking, gardening and, if the tanks are big enough, as an alternative to town water for showering and laundry.

Domestic greywater systems can also help you save a pretty penny over time. Typically, greywater constitutes about 70 – 80% of a household’s water usage, and it’s not hard to capture it, treat it and use it for toilets and/or landscaping.

Quality insulation is a must for the efficient and sustainable home.  Yes, it’s an unseen workhorse, but insulation helps to maintain an even temperature inside the home and reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling.

Installing sustainable systems in your home may involve some upfront cost, but it’s a sure-fire way to save money in the long run. 

The local councils offer various subsidies and concessions so be sure to do your research and see how they can support your plans to save energy and make your home more sustainably friendly – visit Darebin Council, Banyule Council and Whittlesea Council for more information.

And it’s also a great way to up the re-sale value of your home – talk to the team at Love & Co about how green living can add value to your property.

What Else Can I Do to Live more Sustainably?

As an individual, you might feel that you can’t do much in the big scheme of things.  But believe us when we say your small choices matter, and your buying habits count. 

And the lifestyle you choose will help to develop good habits in your children too.

We get it: there must be a balance between your wallet and your good intentions.  And in some circles, there is considerable debate about whether some so-called ‘eco-friendly’ products are really helping to create a healthier planet. 

However, if a zero-waste lifestyle is on the top your household agenda, here are our top tips to help you achieve your goal:

1. Reduce Waste
   
   – Recycle wherever possible.  Glass bottles, paper, plastic, old clothes… anything that can be re-used should be. 
   
   – Cut down the food waste.  Don’t over-purchase (this is guaranteed to be kinder to your back pocket as well as reducing the amount that ends up in the bin).
   
   – Start a compost bin.  Vege scraps can be turned into great fertiliser! Join the Compost Revolution in association with Darebin Council to see if you are eligible for their compost kit discounts.
   
   – Choose to use reusable shopping bags rather than plastic ones.
   
   – And for the typical Melbourne coffee lover, take your reusable cup rather than using a disposable one – 1 takeaway coffee cup each day adds up to a lot of waste cardboard in a month!
   
   
2. Get growing!

Sustainable gardening is fun and provides a clean source of food for you and your family while taking care of the Earth that sustains us all. 

Of course there are some factors to consider, such as geographic location and climates, soil health and sunlight needs so remember to do your research and plan your garden before you begin.

Whether you have visions of a bumper vegetable garden, fruit harvest or a herb garden, each plant will need different amounts of space between them and grow to different sizes (think of the difference between a carrot and a pumpkin, even if both begin as tiny seedlings). You might want to plan for particular plants that complement each other, such as tomatoes and basil, and think about what will grow best depending on the season.

Woolworth’s recently offered fabulous Discovery Garden Seedling Kits to encourage kids to get on board with starting their patches – remember everything we do teaches the next generation.

• Use Natural Cleaners

Harsh household chemicals generally end up in the sewerage system, so reduce your footprint by choosing to use natural cleaning products.

Vinegar and baking soda are two pantry staples that can work wonders when it comes to household cleaning. 

Why not try making your own washing detergent?  This is a great option for families with little children – chemicals are often harsh on young skin.

• Make Savvy Clothing Choices

The fashion industry causes a lot of pollution worldwide, so making conscious choices when you purchase has never been more important.

The Finders Keepers Market (hosted in the Royal Exhibition building) is a great place to find sustainably sourced clothing for all ages. 

Donate your unused clothing to charity stores or use your worn-out items for rags and cleaning cloths.

• Sustainable Gifting Ideas

Gifting doesn’t have to mean layers of shiny cellophane or glossy paper that ends up in the bin!

Why not gift an experience rather than things?  Invite a friend over for a coffee, offer to babysit, or lend a hand for an hour or two and help with some gardening chores.

Home-baked goodies are everyone’s favourite!  Or try creating a card using recycled materials. 

• Support Local Business

Buying local whenever possible is a great way to create sustainable communities. 

Visit your local farmer’s market for fresh produce and a host of other household items. And for that romantic night out, choose from one of Melbourne’s gorgeous and environmentally conscious restaurants.

The team at Love & Co believe in reducing our environmental impact and creating homes and lifestyles to preserve the balance of nature around us. It’s our responsibility to take steps to ensure that it’s there for our children to enjoy too.