As we become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our choices, the idea of bringing nature indoors has never been more relevant – a positive way to reduce consumption as well as making your home a more comfortable place to be.
One of the pressing issues in the UK is homeware waste. As reported by the Independent, 70 million items of homeware are sent to landfill from UK homes each year. This highlights the challenge of so-called 'fast homeware' – a parallel to the more well-known ‘fast fashion’ trends which lead to the discarding of fashion textiles.
By embracing sustainable interiors, there are a few ways you can look to start making a positive impact. Opting for pieces made from reclaimed wood, or other eco-friendly materials, not only reduces the demand for new resources but also supports a circular economy. Furthermore, bringing in plants into your living space can improve indoor air quality and promote a sense of well-being, making your home a healthier environment.
Triodos customer and fellow B-Corp House of Hackney is a brand that wholeheartedly supports the movement of bringing nature into the home, championing the use of vibrant, nature-inspired designs that celebrate the beauty of the natural world. Its commitment extends beyond aesthetics; House of Hackney is on a learning journey to become a regenerative business that prioritises the wellbeing of nature (including humans).
This commitment is at the heart of their approach to material sourcing which includes shifting to organic cotton with recycled fabrics, regeneratively grown wool, hemp and more. It strives not only to minimise its social and environmental footprint but also promote a circular economy. Its efforts to reduce waste, support biodiversity and resilient livelihoods reflect a deep-rooted belief that our living spaces should harmonize with nature, ensuring that homes are not only beautiful but can be sanctuaries to take action for nature, climate and people.
Here are some more tips to consider to connect with nature in your home:
- Choose materials carefully: Choosing interiors made from certified materials, for example Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) wallpaper, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), so that you have third-party assurances about the social and environmental impact of your purchase.
- Invest in quality: Opting for high-quality furniture that will last longer reduces the need for replacements and minimises waste.
- Repurpose and upcycle: Get creative with old furniture! Instead of discarding it, consider repainting or reupholstering items to give them new life.
- Incorporate plants: Adding houseplants not only enhances the feel of your space, but also improves air quality and creates a calming environment.
- Choose energy-efficient lighting: Use LED bulbs and maximise natural light to reduce energy consumption and create a brighter, more inviting space.
- Select non-toxic paints: When refreshing your walls, choose paints that are low in volatile organic compounds.
- Be mindful of your decor: Choose decorative items that are sustainably sourced.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle: Always take the time to consider if an item can be repurposed or recycled before throwing it away.
Bringing nature into your home is not just a trend - it is a crucial step towards reducing furniture waste and fostering a more sustainable lifestyle. By making mindful choices about the materials and designs we incorporate into our living spaces, we can contribute to a healthier planet while enjoying the beauty and tranquillity that nature brings.
Reduce reuse and recycle is hardly new and this doesn't appear to have much to do with nature other than aesthetic. It might work as a brand for guilty middle classes with spare cash but to someone who actually fights to save and recover nature everyday from finance driven insanity this looks like greenwashed capitalism and misrepresentation.
Very helpful because it reminds us that looking after the environment begins at home.
It's a good common sense article that I hope many will find interesting, but I'm assuming like me, the targeted audience are already clued-up considering they have joined an ethical bank ;)
Very good thank you.