At Nuva Living, we believe that every small gesture counts when it comes to caring for the planet. Sometimes, being more sustainable doesn’t require big investments or complicated changes. Here, we share some Nuva Tips—simple habits you can start applying today to live more sustainably in your apartment. It’s easy, practical, and beneficial for both you and the environment!
1. Turn off the lights when you don’t need them
One of the simplest and most effective habits to save energy is turning off the lights when leaving a room. Not only will you reduce electricity consumption, but you’ll also extend the life of your light bulbs.
2. Use reusable containers
Whether for storing food in the fridge or taking meals to work, opting for reusable containers instead of disposable ones is an easy and sustainable switch. You can start by using glass jars or containers you already have at home.
3. Wash clothes with cold water
Most of the energy used in washing clothes goes towards heating the water. Washing in cold water is not only more sustainable but also helps preserve the quality of fabrics for longer.
4. Bring your own bags
Whenever you go shopping, remember to bring your own cloth or reusable bags. This helps avoid the unnecessary use of plastic bags, which take hundreds of years to decompose.
5. Use less paper
To reduce paper use, you can:
- Read news and magazines in digital format.
- Use a whiteboard or reusable notepad for grocery lists or reminders.
- Print only when absolutely necessary.
6. Unplug chargers and appliances
Even when devices are not in use, they continue to consume energy if plugged in. A simple habit is to unplug chargers and appliances when you’re not using them. This can make a big difference in your energy consumption.
7. Reduce plastic use
Opt for reusable water bottles, avoid plastic cutlery and straws, and look for alternatives like bamboo or metal products to replace single-use plastic items.
8. Reuse water
When washing fruits or vegetables, reuse that water to water your plants. It’s an easy way to reduce waste and make your daily routine more sustainable.
9. Buy only what you need
Being mindful when shopping is key to reducing waste. Before heading to the store, check what you already have at home to avoid doubling up on items and throwing away expired food.
10. Choose eco-friendly cleaning products
Instead of using chemical-heavy cleaning products, try more natural and homemade alternatives like vinegar and baking soda. These are not only less harmful to the environment but also healthier for you and your home.
11. Clothing: Think before washing
Before washing your clothes, ask yourself if it’s really necessary. Often, items can be worn more than once before needing a wash, helping you save water and energy.
12. Reduce heating and air conditioning use
Adjust the temperature in your home efficiently: in winter, bundle up more before turning on the heat, and in summer, ventilate well before using air conditioning. Small adjustments in habits can make a big difference in energy consumption.
13. Buy local
Supporting local markets and buying fresh products from nearby sources not only reduces the carbon footprint from long-distance transport but also supports small producers. Plus, they are usually fresher and of better quality.
14. Think before throwing things away
Before getting rid of something, think about whether you can give it a new use. You can turn jars into plant pots, old t-shirts into rags, or reuse cardboard boxes for storage. Your creativity is your best tool!
Being more sustainable in your apartment doesn’t require big investments or drastic changes. With these small habits, you can make a significant difference in your environmental impact. At Nuva Living, we believe that we can all contribute to a more sustainable future—starting with small actions at home!
