Ready to take your DIY home projects to the next level? Focusing on sustainability as you improve your space, can transform your home, reduce waste, conserve resources, and support the circular economy. And since circular economy sustainability is all about keeping items in use longer by reusing, repurposing, and recycling rather than discarding things that can be used again, learning how to put it into practice is worth your while.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just beginning, here are some sustainable tips for green home improvements that will leave you feeling great about your environmental impact.
1. Rethink Your Materials: Use, Reuse, and Source Responsibly
One of the simplest ways to make a DIY project more sustainable is by rethinking the materials you use. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans generate around 600 million tons of construction-related waste each year, much of which could be reduced by reusing or recycling materials.
Instead of buying all new supplies, check local marketplaces, scrap lumber yards, or even neighborhood swaps. With effort, you can find everything from wood scraps to gently used appliances that can breathe new life into a project. This way, you’re giving existing materials a new purpose while preventing them from ending up in landfills.
And if you’re tackling larger projects, keeping and reusing leftover materials is another eco-friendly strategy. Leftover paint, wood offcuts, or extra tiles can be saved for future sustainable home projects or upcycled for decorative elements.
2. Borrow, Don’t Buy: The Power of Renting Tools
If you’re working on a home improvement project that requires specialized tools you won’t need regularly, consider renting instead of buying. Renting power tools is a fantastic way to participate in a circular economy and shop sustainably. Not only does it allow these instruments to be shared by multiple users—maximizing their lifespan, but it also prevents you from wasting money on an item you’ll likely only use once or twice. This practice can also help you preserve precious storage space in your home since the tools won’t be collecting dust in your garage or attic.
And if you’re wondering, “Where can I rent power tools?” Many local hardware stores, equipment rental services, and even some big-box home improvement stores offer rentals. Just like CORT Furniture Outlet sells quality used and repurposeable furniture, many tool rental services allow DIYers to access high-quality options without the environmental impact of a single-use purchase.
3. Upcycle Old Furniture and Decor
Got an old ladder? Turn it into a rustic shelf! Or, if you have spare wooden crates, stack them to make a unique storage solution.
Upcycling projects are one of the most enjoyable ways to reduce waste at home while adding character to your space. If you have items lying around that you no longer use—like an old dresser, cabinet, or even a collection of mismatched chairs—consider giving them a new purpose. Sanding down old wood furniture and applying fresh paint, for instance, can create stylish new decor pieces with a rustic touch. By rethinking these items rather than discarding them, you’re reducing the demand for new products and maintaining a more sustainable lifestyle.
4. Switch to Energy-Efficient Options
Opting for energy-efficient improvements can reduce your carbon footprint and cut down on household waste. Installing LED lighting, upgrading appliances to energy-efficient Energy Star models, or using programmable thermostats are simple projects that can enhance your home’s sustainability.
If you’re ready for a bigger investment, consider installing solar panels or switching to renewable energy sources if they’re available in your area. Not only do these green home improvements reduce energy waste and your dependence on non-renewable energy sources, but they may also save you money in the long term.
View this post on Instagram
5. Seal, Insulate, and Repair
Sealing your windows and doors, insulating your attic, and upgrading to double-paned windows are all practical DIY projects that can make a big difference in energy efficiency. Although small, these energy-saving projects prevent heat loss in the winter and reduce cooling needs in the summer, reducing your household’s overall energy demand.
Since drafty windows are responsible for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, these environmentally friendly projects can also lower your utility bills since you’ll waste less energy.
6. Start a Garden and Compost
Starting a garden is a fulfilling project that reduces food waste, minimizes packaging, and lends to a more sustainable home. Growing herbs, vegetables, or fruit can also add beauty to your space while reducing your need to buy plastic-wrapped, heavily transported produce.
And if you decide to compost, that’s even better! Especially since the EPA reports that about 30% of what we throw away is compostable. From fruit peels and coffee grounds to yard trimmings—composting can help reduce landfill waste and enrich your garden’s soil naturally.
7. Choose Quality Furniture That Lasts
When it comes to furniture, investing in high-quality, durable pieces is a powerful way to participate in the circular economy. CORT Furniture Outlet, for example, is all about making sustainability accessible. We offer a range of sturdy, stylish furniture that is built to last. Our circularity model also makes us a greener choice since the items in our showrooms have been reused and renewed for use.
By selecting pieces designed for longevity and reuse, you’re not only reducing the “take, make, waste” model of traditional production but also supporting a cycle of repair, reuse, and eventual upcycling.
8. Reduce Waste with Thoughtful Disposal
When projects are complete, it is important to find eco-friendly ways to dispose of or recycle excess materials. Look for local recycling centers or charitable organizations that accept building materials or tools you no longer need. Many communities also have specialty recycling options, so you can responsibly dispose of items that might otherwise end up in a landfill.
9. Furnish Your Home with Circularity in Mind
Want to participate in the circular economy and reduce waste in your home? There are numerous ways to do it, including shopping at CORT Furniture Outlet!
At CORT Furniture Outlet, our furniture started its life being rented through CORT. After multiple rental cycles (often up to six!), CORT’s furniture is once again inspected and cleaned by our team of experts. Then, it comes to CORT Furniture Outlet, where it starts a new life.
We offer furniture and decor at up to 70% off new retail prices, so you can enjoy the high-quality pieces we select in your home while keeping them out of the landfill. Visit your local CORT Furniture Outlet to check out our always-changing selection today!
