Living in the age of increased eco-awareness means you must factor in some things while looking for your next apartment. This is important if you care about this issue on a very personal level. In that case, you should also look for an environmentally-friendly apartment. However, if you’re unsure where to start or what to look for, then this text will help you learn. Different factors are all equally important, which can turn your ordinary apartment into a green, healthy, and sustainable one. So for that reason, here are the most critical factors you should consider if you`re pursuing an eco-friendly apartment.
Sustainable materials are important
The materials used for the apartment need to be sustainable, for that apartment to be considered eco-friendly. Everyone knows that the construction process consumes a huge amount of raw materials, creating a lot of waste. It’s been well-documented that waste is one of the most difficult challenges when it comes to the environment. Hence, opting for green building solutions is the best place to start, so make sure that check that information before you decide to start searching for a new home. Also, if possible, make sure to check whether the HVAC systems are updated. Recycling programs and relying on renewable energy resources are also big factors contributing to the environmentally-friendly apartment.
Location is often the key
Living an eco-friendly lifestyle revolves around a lot of different things. And it is up to you to decide the extent of these things. But, when it comes to living in an eco-friendly apartment, one thing’s for sure: your lifestyle needs to match the city and the place you live in. For instance, Portland consistently ranks among the greenest cities in America, so it`s probably the best option when you`re looking for apartment rentals in Oregon. It also makes perfect sense why location plays such a big role. For example, if you’re determined to live more sustainably, you should aim to live in a place that has proximity to is options. Also, the location of your place should be close to major amenities such as schools, supermarkets, parks, schools, and gyms, so you won’t have to drive that much. Driving is a huge part of the pollution cycle, so reducing your time behind the wheel can be of significant help if you’re looking to reduce your own carbon footprint.
Look out for water-saving features
Water preservation is one of the biggest challenges that await humanity in the upcoming years. Some places on Earth lack access to drinkable water, which is why it’s crucial to be mindful of your personal water consumption. So, a well-designed eco-friendly apartment will have water-saving features, such as a functional plumbing system without major leaks. Additionally, features such as low-flow toilets and water-saving shower heads can be extremely helpful in water preservation. If the building offers additional water conservation methods such as recycling grey and stormwater, then it is safe to say that you’ve found yourself a truly environmentally-friendly apartment. Showering for shorter periods and generally wasting less water is often the first step toward adopting a more eco-conscious lifestyle routine.
Communal elements matter a great deal
Hyper-consumerist societies rely on individual consumption and alienation to prosper. Therefore, if you’re looking for an eco-friendly apartment, then it’s essential to check for communal practices, such as carpooling opportunities, laundry room, and communal composting, to name only a few. This can help tenants get together and invest in collective efforts that can reduce waste and pollution. This is why co-living apartments are so popular lately: they’ve been primarily designed with eco-friendly living in mind. They’re also fossil-fuel energy-free and offer accessibility to pedestrian and bicycle movement. All of that together, make them a perfect way to start your eco-friendly lifestyle. Also, investing in your community is always a great way to live a more eco-friendly life with less consumption.
Also, look out for smaller green features
Sometimes, the most important things hide in the form of something small. And if you’re aiming to find a green apartment in a vibrant, urban community, then you have to look out for smaller green features. The good news is, many new rentals come equipped with them. However, if you’re looking for a renovated industrial apartment in Berlin or New York City, then chances are, you won’t be that lucky. So be sure to look at the right places. But sustainability can be used in many places and instances. For example, LED lightbulbs and efficient light fixtures, as well as energy-saving appliances are very common nowadays. Any features or appliances that help you reduce your energy consumption should be welcome in your new apartment.
Insulating solutions should be a priority
The highest energy consumers in one’s household are heating and cooling, especially during respective seasons that require excessive use. Also, excessive energy consumption is often necessary for extreme weather conditions. Therefore, insulating solutions should be the best way to minimize that consumption. Choosing a building with good insulation is the first step in the right direction. However, it’s also important for that building to have sealed windows and doors to ensure the most optimal energy consumption. The best insulation solutions aim to keep the apartment warm in winter and cool in summer, which can be crucial if you happen to live in the continental climate.
Make sure there are the right certifications
Sometimes, certifications can make all the difference. In case you want the insurance that your building is truly green, then be sure to check if it has the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. This is the most established rating system that evaluates green buildings in America. So, the LEED certification will be given if the new or renovated building meets all the criteria in terms of sustainability, water, and energy efficiency. In case you don’t want to waste your time visiting each building, then it is best to check out the LEED official website, and look at their official list of LEED-certified buildings and homes.
Don’t forget about the landscaping
The proper green building should also incorporate biophilic solutions, especially in the outdoor communal areas. And such areas are a must, so the landscaping has to match the intended purpose. For example, planting native species will prevent intrusive species from taking over the local ecosystem. Another big advantage is that the native species are more resistant, require far less water, and are more immune to droughts, especially compared to imported species. And in case water preservation matters to you, then check for bioswales, which are linear channels with the main purpose of managing stormwater runoff and preventing erosion. Although they’re not so common in residential properties, in the future, they might become a staple part of every green building.
Conclusion
You should consider these important factors when searching for the ultimate eco-friendly apartment. Energy efficiency, co-living, relevant certifications, location, and landscaping are only some factors that will ensure that your apartment is sustainable and properly designed with green solutions in mind. Healthy, efficient homes will only rise in popularity because people want the best solutions to preserve their own well-being and take care of the environment.
Images:
1: https://www.pexels.com/photo/an-agent-showing-the-property-to-the-new-homeowners-7414923/
2: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-in-black-coat-holding-a-placard-on-the-yard-8962332/
3: https://www.pexels.com/photo/bed-in-modern-bedroom-with-furniture-5998049/
