You may think that by living in an apartment, you don’t have as many green options as your home-dwelling brethren. While it is difficult to utilize solar panels in an apartment, many of the same green practices for a home apply to an apartment. Plus, renters have some their own unique greening techniques. So if you want your unit to be more Earth-friendly, follow these simple tips.
Image courtesy: http://search.creativecommons.org/?q=green%20apartment
Go Toxic Free
Many of the products in your apartment were made with or contain toxic chemicals that have harmed or will harm the environment. Therefore, buying and using only toxic-free products is a great start to greening your apartment. This includes not only chemicals like floor cleaners, but also home products such as sheets and even your bath soap.
Use Energy-Efficient Products
Much like a house, each apartment unit is responsible for its energy use. So classic green solutions such as installing fluorescent light bulbs or using energy-efficient appliances apply here too.
Be Thrifty
Most apartment dwellers live in a city. If that includes you, take advantage of the numerous thrift stores and secondhand shops found in cities. Furnishing your apartment with used furniture helps save the environment and save you money.
Get Free A/C
As a service to its tenants, some apartment building supply air conditioning in its halls, so instead of cranking yours as well, open your door and let the cool in come in — for free.
Compost
Compost bins come in small sizes, perfect for an apartment balcony. However, you may need permission first.