7 Tips for Living More Sustainably In An Apartment

If you live in an apartment, then you probably run into some problems when it comes to living a more eco-friendly life – there isn’t full control over your space, there is no compost nearby, and so on. If you are paying rent, then you can’t really make any drastic changes to your environment. However, there are always some tricks that you can apply if you want to be more sustainable.  

1. Lightbulbs

Even if you are renting you can still change the lightbulbs in the apartment. Opt for LED ones which are more eco-friendly. They are a bit pricier, but it’s worth it and you can always keep the original ones that came with the place and put them back in once it is time to move out. Then at the new place you will already have the LED lightbulbs with you.

2. Energy

Realistically, your landlord won’t say yes to your request of installing solar panels in the apartment. However, you can still switch to renewable energy. There are specific energy suppliers out there which are great for that. They collaborate with your current supplier and ensure that the energy you are using comes from clean sources. You will most probably save some money that way. 

3. Recycling

Finding trash chutes in an apartment building might be tough. You would usually have a dumpster outside. If none of those options are available or suitable for you then you should find new ways of recycling.  For example, you could bring your trash to a specific drop point, use a friend’s curbside recycling, ask my landlord to get one or use my work’s recycling pick up. 

4. Composting

Composting is also tough when living in an apartment. In case you have a balcony, you can set up a small compost, but otherwise it is difficult.

5. Showerheads

Get a new shower head which doesn’t sacrifice water pressure. In this way you will have more voluminous hair and you can always switch it back to the old one once it is time to move.  

6. Decor and furniture 

In case you think you need some new decor, try buying second hand. You might be surprised at the awesome stuff you can find there! In this way you will also be helping the environment. If nothing there catches you eye, then at least shop from a sustainable brand. 

7. Fridge

It might come as a surprise, but your fringe might turn out to be the biggest user of energy – up to one quarter of your entire bill. The older it is the more expensive it is. Ask your landlord for an efficient one if the current fridge is ancient. It is important to keep the compressor coils clean!

Fun fact is that it will work better if there are things inside it. So if you don’t have a lot of food at the moment, just put some jars with water. 

What tricks are you using in order to live more sustainably in an apartment? Let me know!