Green Apartment Living in St. Louis, MO
It can be easy to quickly become overwhelmed as a student attempting to balance your academics, personal life, physical health and mental wellbeing. So, how can you possibly devote time and money to living an environmentally-conscious lifestyle at your student housing option? Contrary to common misconceptions, there are many simple eco-friendly steps you can that will actually save you money and make you feel better about yourself for caring about the precious world around you. Take advantage of your transition to your new loft apartments to begin living green with these easy lifestyle changes.
Reduce Amount of Electricity Consumed
In order to be environmentally conscious it is vital to limit the amount of fossil fuels that are burned. In order for us to access electricity, fossil fuels must be burned. Therefore, make sure that you are not wasting energy in your apartment. Turn the light off in rooms that you are no longer in and unplug electronics when not in use. Even if they are turned off or on standby, electronics will continue to absorb energy. You should also consider adjusting your thermostat so the temperature in your unit is two degrees warmer than normal in the summer and two degrees colder in the winter. Though the temperature difference will not be noticeable, it will reduce the number of fossil fuels burned and it will also decrease your monthly power bill.
Take Advantage of Public Transportation
Instead of driving your car to campus every day, walk or ride your bike. Not only will you be reducing the amount of costly gasoline you are using, but you will also be getting much needed exercise during your daily commute. If the weather prevents you from walking or you live too far from campus, take the Metrolink.
Minimize Paper Usage
If you do not actively attempt to limit the amount of paper you are in possession of, you would be surprised how much you accrue pretty regularly. Consider mail you receive at your apartment. Much of the mail you get is composed of advertisements you immediately throw into the trash. Instead, contact the companies that send you pamphlets and ask to be removed from the mailing list. If you receive paper copies of credit card bills and utility bills every month, instead opt for online notifications instead. Don’t let receipts pile up in your purse or wallet, but ask your cashier if it can be sent electronically. When you must dispose of paper, drop it off at a local St. Louis recycling center.
Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products
Cleaning products have a surprising number of harsh chemicals and toxins that have the potential to harm your surrounding environment. Therefore, when you are purchasing new cleaners, be sure to buy non-toxic, biodegradable products, which can be found in all major groceries and natural stores. If you would rather make your own products, create an all purpose cleaner by combining natural dish soap, water, rubbing alcohol and peppermint essential oils. For a glass cleaner, mix rubbing alcohol, white vinegar and water together.
Go Green at Your Student Apartment
Living an environmentally-friendly lifestyle does not have to be complicated. To additionally ease your new green lifestyle, find luxury apartments St. Louis has to offer that will support your goals. For example, City Lofts on Laclede helps residents by providing on-site recycling services. Contact our office today to schedule a tour to see our stylish apartments and lavish amenities.