Page 19 - GTA Lifestyle Oakville October 2022

Like floors, there are many different types of eco-friendly countertop materials, such as quartz, an eco-friendly, engineered stone product, soapstone which is recyclable, and Silestone which is recycled!
3. Buy local furniture. This is a great sustainable solution that helps support our local communities, limits the amount of emissions associated with the shipping and delivery of furnishings, and keeps perfectly good pieces out of landfills. Take it a step further and seek out reclaimed pieces in second-hand shops, estate sales or hand-me-downs, many of which are oozing with character and one-of-a-kind charm. It’s often possible to refinish these pieces back to their original glory, or refresh them with a coat of paint and some new upholstery.
4. Check the energy-efficiency rating. This one seems obvious but it bears repeating: there are many “small” things you can do to decrease your environmental footprint, and with the push toward more sustainable living, many manufacturers are leaning on third-party efficiency rating platforms to ensure their products make the grade. ENERGY STAR certification applies to about 80 different types of products including appliances, electronics, light bulbs and fixtures, water heaters, windows and doors, ensuring that they meet the minimum efficiency requirements.
Aside from the efficiency rating, consider incorporating home automation into your renovation, to help maximize your energy efficiency. Think lights, sprinkler systems, thermostat and window coverings on smart-timers. While this does involve an initial investment in the form of the technology and installation, the money you spend will come back to you (and then some!) over the long term, in the form of lower energy bills.
It may sound like a cliché, but environmental responsibility really does start at home, and many small steps combined, will make a big difference. Not, just think about the impact to the environment,
if everyone were to take these steps! Before you dig into your next renovation this fall, research and engage with design and renovation professional with proven eco experience and knowledge.
SOUTH OAKVILLE Lifestyle October 2022 Page 19