Sustainable living has become a top priority among young individuals, especially those living in the city. Recently, the city of Boston received a "Moderate to Good Performance" score for responsible consumption and production from the UN's Sustainable Development Goals initiative. While Boston residents are doing their best to make better choices for the environment, there are other things that can be done to lessen one's carbon footprint, protect wildlife, and live a healthier, less toxic lifestyle. Here are some easy ways to live sustainably in your Boston apartment.

 

Switch to Energy Efficient Appliances

Studies have shown that certain eco-friendly home modifications can add value to a property. Moreover, they can help you save money in the long run. A simple way to modify your apartment to make it more sustainable is by switching to energy efficient or smart appliances. Doing so ensures that you use less energy, which is one of the easiest things that anyone can do to save the environment. You can switch from an old refrigerator, which consumes about 150 kWh per month, to an Energy Star-certified refrigerator which uses only about 35 kWh per month. Start with large appliances that you use on a daily basis, then gradually replace other appliances to keep the costs down. Remember to donate your old appliances or take them to the local recycling facility to dispose of appliances in a responsible manner.

 

Do Without the Bottled Water

Instead of buying bottled water, why not get a water filter or purifier for your apartment? Plastic water bottles add to the massive trash in landfills all over the world. Moreover, they can end up in rivers and oceans, and may harm aquatic life and human health. Look for a water filter system that has a 5-stage filtration system to remove chlorine and other contaminants, as well as a long filter life so you won't have to change filters too often. Store filtered water in glass water bottles and put them in the fridge so you can have chilled water whenever you need it. Don't forget to buy a reusable water bottle too so you can fill it up at home and take it with you wherever you go.

 

Add Some Plants

Adding some greenery into your apartment not only enhances your living space's aesthetics, but it can also make you feel healthier and happier. Most city dwellers know that living a high paced lifestyle in an urban area can be stressful, and studies show that having some plants in your home can help to ease stress, boost your mood, and even improve your focus and concentration. Some plants can even help to naturally freshen the air and get rid of harmful toxins, so look for potted plants with air cleaning properties. Among the best plants for indoor air cleaning are peace lilies, spider plants, English ivy, Aloe Vera, snake plants, chrysanthemums, and Areca palm.

 

You can have a healthy and sustainable lifestyle while living in the city. Consider these easy changes to make your Boston apartment more eco-friendly. Not only will these small transformations benefit your physical and mental wellbeing, but you'll also be doing your part to save the planet.