Sustainability Practices When Apartment Sharing
Apartment sharing is a popular and practical solution for living affordably, meeting new people, and building a vibrant community. But, with multiple people under one roof, it can sometimes lead to higher waste and resource consumption. The good news? Sharing a space offers a unique opportunity to embrace sustainable living and reduce your carbon footprint — together.
In this post, we’ll explore practical sustainability practices for apartment sharing, including how to find trustworthy roommates who align with your values. Whether you’re already sharing a space or preparing for your next move, these tips will inspire a greener way of living together.
Why Sustainability Matters in Shared Spaces
Living sustainably isn’t just about reducing bills; it’s about creating a positive impact on the environment and living consciously. With shared living, the collective choices you and your roommates make — big or small — can have a ripple effect on both the planet and your pocket. By working together, you can reduce waste, conserve energy, and create an eco-friendly household.
Practical Sustainability Practices for Shared Apartments
Set Ground Rules for Eco-Friendly Habits
The foundation of a sustainable apartment begins with communication. Schedule a house meeting to discuss everyone’s environmental goals and set ground rules. Rather than tackling big issues, it’s better to start off with simple practices like turning off lights, appliances, and electronics when they’re not in use or using energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances. You could also agree to keep the thermostat at a reasonable level to save energy.
When everyone is on the same page, it’s easier to create lasting habits that benefit both the planet and your budget.
Adopt a Waste-Reduction Mindset
Apartment living can easily lead to excess waste, especially if each roommate buys groceries individually or fails to recycle. Here’s how to make waste reduction a shared mission:
- Meal Planning and Sharing: Plan meals together and share ingredients to prevent over-purchasing and food waste. A group cooking night can also be fun and a great way to bond – especially if you’re welcoming new roommates.
- Recycling Stations: Set up clearly labeled bins for recycling paper, plastics, and glass. This will make recycling so much easier.
- Composting: If possible, designate a small compost bin for food scraps. Many urban areas have compost drop-off points.
Go Green With Cleaning Products
Cleaning supplies are often laden with chemicals that harm the environment. As a group, commit to using eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning products or DIY alternatives like vinegar and baking soda. Consider buying in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
If you share cleaning responsibilities among roommates, make sure everyone knows where to find sustainable cleaning supplies and how to use them effectively.
Save Water
Did you know that apartment sharing can increase water consumption? To save water when you’re living with someone else, use low-flow showerheads and faucets and run the dishwasher or washing machine only with full loads to maximize efficiency. You could also limit shower times and consider showering at off-peak hours to reduce strain on water heaters.
If you notice any leaks or dripping taps, fix them immediately to make sure you don’t waste any water.
Buy Sustainable Furniture
If you’re furnishing your apartment together, look for second-hand or upcycled furniture. Sites like Facebook Marketplace, thrift stores, and even curbside finds can provide affordable and unique options. Not only does this prevent waste, but it also gives your space personality.
For decor, consider houseplants — they purify the air and add a touch of nature to your home, which makes them perfect for sustainable households.
Cut Down on Plastic Use
Single-use plastics are one of the biggest culprits of environmental harm. Work together to minimize plastic usage in your apartment by using reusable grocery bags, storage containers, and beeswax wraps. You can also buy pantry staples in bulk and store them in glass jars to save on needless packaging.
Say no to plastic straws, utensils, and takeout packaging whenever possible.
Create a Shared Sustainability Fund
If your household is committed to sustainable living, consider starting a small sustainability fund. This fund can cover the cost of eco-friendly upgrades, like energy-efficient appliances, reusable products, or even a subscription to a local farm’s produce box. Everyone chips in a small amount, and the apartment benefits as a whole.
Find Roommates Who Value Sustainability
To build a truly sustainable apartment, it’s important to find roommates who share your values. Trust and alignment are key, especially when it comes to establishing eco-friendly habits. To find your ideal roommate, use reputable platforms like SpareRoom. With detailed profiles and options to filter for like-minded individuals, you’ll have a better chance of connecting with roommates who prioritize green living.
Make sure to be clear about your values. In your ad or profile, mention your commitment to sustainability. This will attract potential roommates who resonate with your lifestyle.
While finding someone who aligns perfectly with your sustainability goals is ideal, mutual respect is essential. Even if they’re new to eco-friendly living, an open-minded roommate can quickly learn and adapt.
Make Sustainability Fun and Engaging
Sustainability doesn’t have to be a chore, especially if you’re just getting started. Here are some creative ways to keep sustainability fun in a shared apartment:
- Eco Challenges: Host monthly challenges, like a “zero-waste week” or “no single-use plastic month,” and reward the most successful participant with a prize.
- Swap Nights: Organize swap nights where you exchange clothes, books, or household items instead of buying new ones.
- DIY Projects: Try DIY projects as a group, such as making your own candles, cleaning products, or upcycled decor.
- Community Involvement: Volunteer together for local environmental initiatives, like park clean-ups or tree planting events. This will also help you bond as roommates.
The Bigger Picture
Sustainable apartment sharing is more than just an eco-conscious choice; it’s a lifestyle that promotes teamwork, mindfulness, and mutual respect. By working together and embracing the tips above, you and your roommates can create a home that reflects your shared values and makes a positive impact on the environment.