Going Green: 7 Top Trends in Eco-Friendly Home and Garden Products

From strategies that can make a home more sustainable to examples of sustainable household items.

We all have growing concerns about climate change and the impact of human activity on the environment, many conscious consumers are looking for more eco-friendly options in their homes and gardens. Here is the Willow Alexander roundup of our favourite trends in sustainability, eco-friendliness, and carbon neutrality for home and garden products in 2023 and beyond:

1. Plant-Based and Non-Toxic Products

Mindful shoppers are becoming more aware of the potentially harmful chemicals found in many household products, such as cleaning products, fertilisers, and pesticides. As a result, they’re seeking out products that are safer for their families and the environment. From laundry liquid, our online shop has a variety of household products that are free from harmful chemicals and are made using plant-based ingredients.

2. Water Conservation

As the world continues to face water scarcity issues, more and more of us are prioritising water conservation. A great idea that requires relatively very little work is a rainwater harvesting system. Our “bountiful garden” blog outlines how to set up a rain barrel to collect rainwater from your roof, which can then be used for watering plants, washing your car, and other non-potable uses. blog. Other favourite ideas include low-flow toilets and showerheads, as well as drought-tolerant plants.

3. Energy Efficiency

With global events like the Covid pandemic and the war in Ukraine, the rising cost of electricity is driving consumers to be more conscious of their energy use and carbon footprint. To increase energy efficiency, many are turning to products like the Nest Learning Thermostat (developed by Google), which learns your schedule and adjusts the temperature accordingly, helping to lower those ever-rising energy bills. Always wondered what the hoo-ha was about LED vs those old-fashioned incandescent light bulbs? They last 20 times longer, use 80% less energy, and are safer and more versatile. So why not make the switch!

4. Carbon Neutrality

Both homes and businesses are focused on reducing their carbon footprint, with the goal of becoming carbon neutral or even carbon positive. Carbon-neutral homes are becoming increasingly popular, and homeowners are taking steps to reduce energy consumption, implement renewable energy sources like solar power, and offset any remaining carbon emissions through the purchase of carbon credits. If you want to learn more about how to offset your remaining emissions through activities such as reforestation and renewable energy projects, read about our Sustainabli+ membership.

The good news is, this commitment to sustainability is driving changes in the construction and energy industries, with a focus on creating more efficient and eco-friendly homes and buildings!

5. Circular Economy

As 53% of us in the UK rather repair items than replace them, this exciting approach to design not only reduces waste and conserves resources but is also an innovative and collaborative way of doing things. The circular economy is all about creating a closed-loop system, which means that waste is transformed into valuable resources and products are designed to be reused, repaired, or recycled. By embracing circular design, companies create systems that are regenerative and restorative, bringing new life to materials that might otherwise be discarded. It’s as easy as simple as looking for products that are designed for durability and repairability, or selling/donating old items that you no longer need rather than throwing them away.

6. Sustainable Materials

We’re all looking for products that have a lower impact on the environment and are made using sustainable materials such as

bamboo, recycled plastic, cork, and reclaimed wood in home and garden products. With a lower environmental impact than traditional materials, these alternatives are eco-friendly, durable, and long-lasting. Willow Alexander’s range of eco-conscious kitchen and dining essentials  showcases our favourite sustainable home accessories.

7. Urban Farming

By growing food in city spaces such as balconies, rooftops, and community gardens – many people are turning to urban farming to reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable food systems. Consider the supply chain pros, such as reducing transportation and packaging costs associated with store-bought produce. Beyond being uber charming and a great way to green your fingers while still living in the city, it is an excellent way to promote community engagement and a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

Sustainable living is no longer a trend but a necessity for a better future. From banning non-toxic products in your house to embracing the circular economy, these practical and innovative solutions can help you reach your sustainability goals in no time! Let’s continue to make the world a better place, one eco-friendly choice at a time.