As we all cuddle up during the colder months, inevitably spending more time indoors, chances are we’re going to take a moment to think about sprucing up our home decor. Here are a few tips on how to be a little more mindful of the environment when redecorating.
Start with sustainability
Decorating your home in a sustainable manner begins with being aware that today’s trends are tomorrow’s discards. It’s a good idea to focus on investment pieces: items that will look as good in five years’ time as they do today. This is important because sustainability isn’t just about how an item is produced – although the manner in which factories handle waste, effluent, and emissions are critical, too – it also involves how long you can use it before it needs to be replaced.
Materials matter!
According to the International Union for Nature Conservation (IUCN), more than 300 million tons of plastic are produced every year – and 14 million of them end up in our oceans, where they go on to make up 80% of marine debris. The bottom line? Refusing plastic can make a big difference, but so can opting for products that have been sustainably produced. Invest in furniture that is upholstered in eco-friendly fabric if possible. There are a range of options out there – just look out for them.
Put pressure on suppliers
Nothing refreshes a home quite like a fresh coat of paint. But, while you’re considering colours and finishes, give a thought to what’s inside the paint, too. Until January last year, most of the paint available on South African shelves contained lead, even though this is known to be a cancer-causing toxin hazardous to the environment. Some paint companies, such as Universal Paints, removed lead from their products long before it became obligatory to do so. They also moved to lower the volume of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – the bad stuff – in their water-based range. These chemicals not only cause irritation to the skin, eyes, mouth and nervous system, they also contribute to global warming. Look out for containers, lids, and packaging that are recyclable.
Start responsibly
When starting a paint job, give a little thought to the old paint you’re strippinig off the surface of the object that’s to be given a new look. These paint peelings often wash into storm water drains, where they can cause harm. Instead, collect all old paint and place it into a container, which can be returned to a paint manufacturer who will discard it responsibly.
Remember to recycle
Recycling is a cornerstone of sustainability – the more plastics and other materials we can return to the system, the less virgin plastic will be used. Look out for recyclable materials when you’ve completed your home refurbishment. The containers used for paint are a great example. If you’re not sure how to recycle them, return them to the manufacturer. As for decor items and furniture that you’re no longer using, if you aren’t able to sell these, consider donating them to your favourite charity. it’s difficult to keep up with new developments that will help you create your dream home while still being eco-conscious. If in doubt, ask your interior designer and suppliers for help. You may well be surprised at the wide range of options available.
Details: Article supplied by DIYgirls Interior – a turnkey interior design and manufacturing company, specialising in bespoke designs for residential and commercial spaces – and Universal Paints: www.diygirls.co.za, www.universalpaints.co.za, @diygirls.co.za.
