Nowadays, people are a lot more interested in the environmental effect of the products they buy. Last year, organic food sales rose 4% despite the overall market falling. It’s no surprise that the food we buy is often the first thing people seek to change, considering its immediate effects on our lives.
Adopting a similar approach to the other products we buy can have just as large an effect on the environment though. If you’re considering moving to the countryside, try to incorporate natural and locally sourced materials in your new home.
It’s Better for the Environment
From a purely ecological standpoint, natural materials have an advantage over outsourced goods as they don’t require as much energy to manufacture. If you are able to source local goods, too, you’ll also massively cut down on the negative effects of transportation. Not only are the materials locally produced in your area free of potentially harmful toxins, but they’re also renewable. All of these reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the air as well as the amount of fossil fuels and other non-renewable energy that is consumed.
They’re Often Highly Durable
As the old saying goes, “They don’t make these things the way they used to.” You may have wondered why the modern goods you buy don’t stand the test of time like the antiques your parents or grandparents invested in years ago. It’s not only about the quality of craftsmanship; it’s also about the material used. While the low price of imported furniture may be tempting, it’s actually only a short-term solution. In reality, you’ll end up paying more in the long run because you’ll need to replace it down the line.
It Never Goes Out of Style
Finally, perhaps one of the most appealing traits of use natural materials is that they never go out of style. A natural piece also has the opportunity to be more personable than something you bought in a store. Consider using reclaimed wood to create a piece of furniture for your home. You’ll need to invest in the right tools like a sanding machine from Biesse, but the money you’ll save on materials will outweigh this cost. These items often act as the centerpiece to a home and can even be used in a modern setting to provide contrast.
Searching for local materials can be a great way to learn more about the landscape of your new area. For more ways on how you can improve your property, take a look at these five awesome home improvement ideas.