Use Less, Waste Less: Tips for Minimalist Living in our Modern World
If you’ve followed my blog and Instagram, you know that I am a big proponent of minimalism. Living a zero-waste lifestyle is a lofty goal, and it can be challenging to achieve. The good news is that you don't have to be perfect to make a significant impact day-to-day. By making simple changes in your daily routine and using less, you can reduce waste and contribute to a better environment in your home and community.
I like to look at interior design in a wholistic way. Design is not just about furniture and fixtures. the way you curate and use certain items in your home is all a part of your overall lifestyle that our design team is here to help you achieve.
Using less is a simple but powerful concept
It means being mindful of the resources you consume and reducing your usage as much as possible. This can be anything from turning off the lights when you leave a room or buying products with less packaging. Every little bit counts, and over time, these small actions can add up to a significant impact.
Reduce your consumption of single-use items
These items are designed to be used once and then thrown away, contributing to the growing problem of plastic waste. To reduce your usage of single-use items, try carrying a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and shopping bag with you wherever you go. By doing this, you can significantly reduce the number of plastic items that you use each day.
When designing kitchens for my clients, I like to approach with an attention to detail and even source everything from plates, dinnerware but also I consider sustainable items like reusable coffee cups that are aesthetically pleasing in the kitchen.
Curate Your Home Environment: Shop consciously
When shopping for groceries or other items, choose products with minimal packaging. You can also choose to buy products in bulk to reduce the amount of packaging you use. When it comes to food, try to plan your meals and only buy what you need. This can help reduce food waste, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. See more on this topic which I am very passionate about in my blog post on the concept of a wellness kitchen.
Reduce energy consumption is another way to use less
Simple actions like turning off lights, unplugging electronics when not in use, and adjusting your thermostat can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint. You can also consider switching to energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, which can help reduce your energy usage and save you money on your utility bills. I always like to help my clients source energy efficient solutions when they are approaching renovations and remodels in South Florida.
If you’re interested in some of these concepts for your home or would simply like to talk design, contact me today at kelly@kellymarieinteriordesign.com.