Going Green in Your Apartment: Simple Steps Toward Sustainable Living
/Living sustainably doesn't require a house with solar panels, a sprawling garden, or a composting system in the backyard. If you're an apartment dweller, you can still make meaningful changes to reduce your carbon footprint and create a healthier, more eco-conscious lifestyle. Going green in your apartment is about making smarter choices in your day-to-day life — and often, it's easier and more affordable than you might think.
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Energy Efficiency Starts at Home
One of the easiest and most impactful ways to go green in your apartment is to reduce energy consumption. Start with lighting — swap out traditional incandescent bulbs for LED or CFL bulbs. These not only last longer but also use a fraction of the energy. You should also get in the habit of turning off lights and unplugging electronics when they're not in use. Devices left plugged in still draw power, even if they’re turned off — this phenomenon is known as “phantom load.”
If your landlord allows it, consider installing a programmable thermostat to better manage your heating and cooling. If that’s not an option, simple hacks like using draft stoppers, sealing window gaps with weather stripping, and closing blinds during hot days can help you better regulate indoor temperatures without cranking up the AC or heat.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle — and Rethink
Recycling is a great start, but going green also means reducing what you consume in the first place. Be mindful of packaging when you shop; choose items with less plastic or opt for bulk when possible. Reuse containers, jars, and bags instead of tossing them. Invest in reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and food storage containers to minimize single-use plastic waste.
In your kitchen and bathroom, switch to eco-friendly products. This includes biodegradable soaps and detergents, bamboo toothbrushes, and cloth towels instead of paper ones. You can also look for items with certifications like “USDA Organic,” “Fair Trade,” or “EcoCert” to ensure you're supporting sustainable practices.
Water Conservation in Every Room
Water is a precious resource, and saving it is an essential part of living green. Install a low-flow showerhead and faucet aerators — these simple tools can drastically reduce your water usage without affecting pressure. Try taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.
You can also conserve water by being strategic with how you use appliances. Run your dishwasher and laundry machines only with full loads, and choose cold water settings to save energy. If your apartment doesn’t have a dishwasher, using a basin to soak and wash dishes can significantly reduce water waste.
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Green Your Space with Plants
Adding houseplants to your apartment not only livens up the space but also improves air quality. Certain plants like snake plants, pothos, and peace lilies are particularly good at filtering indoor air pollutants. If you have the space and sunlight, consider growing your own herbs on a windowsill — it’s a small but satisfying step toward self-sufficiency and cuts down on store-bought produce packaging.
Support Sustainable Food and Lifestyle Choices
Going green extends to your food and lifestyle decisions. Buying locally grown produce or shopping at farmer’s markets helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport. Consider reducing meat consumption or switching to a more plant-based diet — even one meatless day per week can make a significant environmental impact.
Try thrifting or buying second-hand furniture and decor instead of new items. Not only does this prevent waste, but it also gives your apartment a unique, personal flair. Similarly, support brands that use sustainable materials and ethical labor practices.
Progress over Perfection
Going green in your apartment isn’t about achieving perfection — it’s about progress. Small actions add up over time, and when practiced consistently, they lead to a lifestyle that’s better for you and the planet. Whether you're switching to energy-efficient lighting, cutting down on single-use plastics, or growing your own herbs, every change counts. And the best part? Many of these steps not only benefit the environment but can also save you money and create a more comfortable, intentional living space.
Infographic provided by About the Author:
Business leader Ben Creamer’s passion is real estate business, as his father was a real estate developer and broker for more than 50 years. In 2009, this family tradition sparked Creamer to co-found Downtown Apartment Collective (DAC) — a provider of Chicago rental apartments. DAC’s mission is to help clients find downtown Chicago apartments in the Loop and surrounding neighborhoods.
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Living sustainably doesn't require a house with solar panels, a sprawling garden, or a composting system in the backyard. If you're an apartment dweller, you can still make meaningful changes to reduce your carbon footprint and create a healthier, more eco-conscious lifestyle. Going green in your apartment is about making smarter choices in your day-to-day life — and often, it's easier and more affordable than you might think.