MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS EARTH MONTH
April is Earth Month, and what better way to start this blog with an opportunity to reflect on the impact our lives have on the environment and some thoughts on how to make positive changes for our planet. By working together, we can create a more sustainable and resilient existence for ourselves and for future generations.
What follows below are some tips on how we can design or renovate our homes in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.
WHAT IS EARTH MONTH?
Earth Month is a time to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices to protect the planet. It takes place every April, with Earth Day being celebrated on the 22nd. The first Earth Day was observed in 1970, and since then, it has become a global movement, with millions of people around the world participating in various events and activities to promote environmental awareness and sustainability.
During Earth Month, individuals and organisations come together to take action on environmental issues, such as reducing waste, conserving energy and water, promoting renewable energy, and protecting wildlife and ecosystems. Many events are organised to celebrate Earth Month, including clean-up events, educational workshops, and community outreach programs.
SUSTAINABILITY & INTERIOR DESIGN
Interior design can have a significant impact on the planet. The materials and products used in interior design can contribute to environmental degradation, such as deforestation, water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The production, transportation, and disposal of materials and products also contribute to carbon emissions and other negative environmental impacts.
However, interior design also has the potential to positively impact the planet. By incorporating sustainable principles into our designs, we can create interior spaces that are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and socially responsible.
When it comes to decorating or renovating your home, it is important to consider the environmental and social impact of the design and strive to create a more sustainable interior space.
7 WAYS TO RENOVATE YOUR HOME IN A MORE SUSTAINABLE WAY
1. Sustainable materials:
Use materials that are eco-friendly, renewable, and non-toxic. Look for materials that have a low carbon footprint and are produced sustainably. Examples include natural and organic materials, such as bamboo, cork, wool, and cotton.
2. Energy-efficient lighting:
Start using LED or CFL bulbs, and always try to maximise natural lighting to reduce energy consumption.
3. Recycle, Re-use, Repurpose:
Choose furniture and decor that are made from recycled materials, repurposed, or upcycled. Donate or recycle old furniture and decor instead of sending them to landfill.
4. Consider indoor air quality:
Choose materials and products that have low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions to improve indoor air quality. Avoid using products that contain formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals.
5. Incorporate biophilic design:
Biophilic design incorporates natural elements, such as plants and natural light, to improve the health and well-being of occupants and connect them to the natural world.
6. Choose durable products:
Choose durable, high-quality products that are designed to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
7. Optimise functionality:
Create interior spaces that are efficient, effective, and meet the needs of the occupants. Keep the space decluttered and organised, use multi-functional furniture, and ventilate the space to improve airflow. Also, the use of technology such as smart home devices that can control lighting, temperature, and other aspects of the space, can help to improve the functionality of the space.
MIKA DESIGN STUDIO’S ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
One of our key company values is Responsible & Sustainable Design. At Mika Design Studio we are committed, and enjoy, finding ways in which we can reduce the impact of our work both in the office, when travelling and through our work for clients in Home Staging & Interior Design services. We are not perfect, but it is something that we take very seriously.
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With our projects we want to show how creativity can bring a home to life without constantly relying on acquiring more disposable items. Whenever possible, it will be our responsibility to encourage our clients to reuse, repurpose, and refurbish, and incorporate more responsibly sourced and durable materials into their homes.
We have partnered with One Tree Planted to plant a tree for every service package sold.
One Tree Planted is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that is dedicated to global reforestation.
We are based in the West Midlands but operate online across the UK. Check out our E-design and Home Staging pages to find out more about our services and packages and let's start making a positive impact in our world, together!
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