There has been a growing trend in recent years towards eco-friendly decor. The rising awareness of the environmental impact of our homes and the increasing availability of sustainable materials and products is driving this demand.
Rising awareness of our home’s impact on the environment and the growing availability of sustainable materials are driving this demand.
There’s also the rising popularity of minimalist and Scandinavian design styles that emphasize simplicity.
You can do numerous things to make your home more eco-friendly, from choosing sustainable materials for your furniture and flooring to using recycled materials in renovations.
Here are some of the latest trends in eco-friendly home decor for 2023.
Sustainable furniture
Sustainable furniture is made from materials harvested or manufactured in environmentally-friendly ways. This can include furniture made from reclaimed wood, bamboo, or other natural materials.
So, how do you recognize this type of furniture?
There are several certifications for sustainable furniture, including the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC). Here’s what those certifications mean:
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): The FSC is a non-profit organization that sets standards for sustainable forest management. FSC-certified furniture is made from wood harvested from forests that are managed in a way that protects the environment and workers’ rights.
Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC): The SFC is a non-profit organization that sets standards for sustainable furniture manufacturing. SFC-certified furniture is made in a way that minimizes the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.
Greenguard Gold: Greenguard Gold is a certification awarded to products that meet strict emissions standards for indoor air quality. Greenguard Gold-certified furniture is made with materials that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can harm human health.
These certifications ensure that the furniture was made from sustainably-managed forests and that the manufacturing process was environmentally friendly.
There are several sustainable furniture options available on the market today. These include furniture made from reclaimed wood, bamboo, and other natural materials. Many furniture brands like West Elm and IKEA are also committed to sustainability.
Natural textiles
Natural textiles are another great way to add a touch of sustainability to your home décor.
These textiles are made from fibers that are found in nature. These fibers can be obtained from plants, animals, or minerals. Some common examples of natural fabrics include:
Plant-based fibers: Cotton, linen, hemp, bamboo, jute, and sisal are all plant-based fibers.
Animal-based fibers: Wool, silk, cashmere, and mohair are all animal-based fibers.
Natural textiles are often considered more sustainable than synthetic textiles, as they can be produced without harmful chemicals. They are also usually more biodegradable, meaning they will break down more quickly in the environment.
But their benefits do not stop there for your home and the environment:
- Comfort: They are often very comfortable to wear, as they are breathable and absorbent.
- Hypoallergenic: Some natural textiles, such as wool and silk, are hypoallergenic, meaning they are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
- Luxury: Natural textiles are often associated with luxury and quality.
Reclaimed materials
Reclaimed materials add character and history to your home décor. Look for furniture, flooring, and other home décor items made from reclaimed wood, metal, or other materials.
These items have a unique story to tell and will help make your home feel more special. We’ve compiled a guide below to help you incorporate more reclaimed and recycled materials into your home.
Low-VOC paints
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can off-gas from paints and other building materials. These chemicals can be harmful to human health and the environment.
They can cause:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation: VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, causing symptoms such as burning, stinging, and coughing.
- Headaches and nausea: VOCs can also cause headaches and nausea.
- Damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system: Long-term exposure to VOCs can damage the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.
- Increased risk of cancer: Some VOCs are known to cause cancer.
On the environmental front, VOCs can decrease air quality by reducing visibility and increasing the amount of pollutants in the air. They also contribute to climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere.
When choosing paints for your home, look for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints. These paints will emit fewer VOCs, which will help improve your home’s air quality.
Sustainable lighting
There are many sustainable lighting options available today. These include:
LED lights: Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are the most energy-efficient type of light bulb available. They use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer.
CFL lights: Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) are another energy-efficient option. They use about 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last about ten times longer.
Solar lights: Solar lights are powered by the sun, so they don’t require any electricity. They are an excellent option for outdoor lighting, such as pathways and patios.
Choosing sustainable lighting for your eco-friendly decor in 2023 helps reduce your overall energy consumption and environmental impact.
Indoor plants
Indoor plants are a great way to add a touch of nature to your home décor. They can also help to improve the air quality in your home. When choosing indoor plants, look for plants native to your climate. These plants will be more likely to thrive in your home.
Here are a few pointers to get you started on your plant-parenthood journey:
- A Beginner’s Guide to Container Gardening
- 22 Low Maintenance Plants to Grow in 2023
- 8 Incredible Indoor Garden Ideas
- Choosing the Best Houseplant for Your Lifestyle [Infographic]
Conclusion
Embracing eco-friendly home decor not only allows us to create stylish and trendy living spaces but also enables us to make a positive impact on the environment.
By incorporating sustainable materials, repurposing and upcycling, and choosing energy-efficient options, we can transform our homes into havens of style and sustainability.
