There is a lot of awareness about Earth Day, Environment Day, Earth hour, etc but are we doing something about them beyond a day dedicated to them? Do we think about how our actions and decisions impact Mother nature? If not, it is high time that we start doing it because we have harmed it enough already. We are reeling from global warming, climate change, and environmental degradation. It’s time to protect our ecosystem and preserve natural resources for future generations. It’s rightly said, you have to be the change that you want to see around you. We have to commit to sustainable practices in every aspect of our life. Home décor and its shopping are also included in it. You may be wondering, is it even possible? Well, it is and the good news is that we do not have to sacrifice anything to be able to care for the environment. All we need is awareness and the right action to create balance with nature.
How do we begin?
Half of the battle is won if it begins well. On that note, let us start by knowing what is sustainable and ethical shopping. It is about making sure that we do not buy those products that are harmful to the environment as well as to future generations. We must not use too many resources that may disrupt the ecosystem. The wastage should be less. And most importantly, it is important to check where the product was made, how was it made, the artisans were paid well for it, and if non-toxic raw materials were used in the making of it.
How do we go about sustainable and ethical shopping?
When choosing eco-friendly décor, it is important, to begin with identifying what we need. And then look for brands that understand those needs. Both buyers and sellers must understand the impact of material performance, availability, and impact on the environment. Only then we will be able to work towards the common goal of going green with sustainable home décor. Thus, let us support sustainable businesses.
Second, it is always good to ask questions. Does the brand work with local artisans from their local community to create handmade products? Are the raw materials locally sourced? Are local artisans involved? What is the carbon footprint? Let them know that you are looking for the best.
Last but not the least, conscious consumerism will also make a difference if we wish to take our commitment to sustainable and ethical shopping seriously.
How not to compromise?
Even while making sustainable home decor product choices, you may continue to have the most exquisite design tastes. They could be pricey but why should one go for things that aren’t safe for our health. There could be some products compromised with cheap, airborne chemicals, and indirectly some products may be polluting residual waters or generating excess waste for the environment. It is just not right to play with nature for saving some extra bucks.
Everyone needs to know that affordable, diverse, convenient, hand-made, and beautiful home décor products can be 100 percent eco-friendly as well. They are aesthetic and they have eco-friendly qualities as well. Rugged and distressed décor wins hands-down when it comes to achieving your dream décor without harming the environment.
Some cool ideas and advice for sustainable décor
- Indoor gardening and choosing lots of natural green is the best way to begin. Include some vines and indoor climber plants for a lovely eco-friendly vibe in your home.
- Go for handmade artistic products made from sustainable raw materials, like mango wood or bamboo or coconut, etc.
- Cut down on the usage of plastic products. Don’t buy them and don’t use them for any kind of decoration
- Products made from jute are extremely eco-friendly.
- Use recycled and upcycled products.
- Look for reusable or 100% recyclable items.
- Ensure that the products are made from materials that are in plentiful supply.
- Timeless and antique pieces have the longest life. They do not require constant change.
- Choose earthy colours, rattan furniture, jute items, upcycled lamps, antique mirrors, etc.
- Going clutter-free is trendy. Be trendy!
At Moonwit, we are educating ourselves about the environment and its concerns. We aim to champion the cause of sustainable practices and commit to offering fair trade, sustainable or ethically-sourced products.
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