Investing in eco-friendly practices have infiltrated nearly every aspect of our lives, and for good reason. Not only do these healthy, sustainable habits help the Earth and our local ecosystems, but many eco-friendly routines also save us a ton of money in the long run. If you’re looking to lead a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle, here are some of the top eco-friendly home trends that you should invest in this year.

1. Choose sustainable furniture

When you’re looking for quality modern furniture, you want to choose sustainable options that last a long time and have little impact on the environment. As such, bamboo products have begun popping up in many furniture stores. This durable, stylish product has even made its way into the flooring industry and health industry, thanks to its numerous applications. While bamboo likely isn’t grown in your backyard, this sustainable product makes up for the high costs in shipping. It’s estimated that bamboo grows more than 10 times faster than traditional hardwood products. This means that you’re investing in a product with a faster life cycle, guaranteeing that you’ll have less of an impact on the planet. If you simply cannot abandon your trusty hardwoods, opt for locally grown materials or recycled options. Not only will this help your local businesses, but it will also ensure that the cost of transporting these luxury goods stays low.

2. Improve your water use

Living efficiently means that you want to use only what you need. Water is among the most highly used resources in our homes, making this a top priority on your mission toward sustainability. You can help improve your water use by upgrading your appliances and installing low-flow toilets in your home. Dual-flush, low-flow toilets will help save the gallons of water you use each day. Meanwhile, upgrading your showerhead to a low-flow option will also cut down on the water you use in the shower multiple times per day. For the truly sustainable individuals, you can also try your hand at gray water systems. Gray water is the slightly dirty water that can be used multiple times before it goes down the drain. For example, the water from your shower can easily work as the water in your toilet. You can also invest in a rainwater collection system if you live in a particularly rainy part of the country.

3. Grow a garden

Most of the plastics and trash we create stems from the products we buy for our homes. To combat the product packaging used for fresh fruits and vegetables, many homeowners have started growing their own gardens. This way, they’re able to enjoy fresh food year-round without promoting the costly transportation associated with shipping faraway goods. Some people have even expanded their love for gardening into a career when they start orchards, vineyards, and more.

4. Focus on flooring

As stated above, locally sourced flooring is the best option for an eco-friendly living space. However, flooring is especially essential when it comes to regulating the temperature of your home. With the right flooring, you can stop air leaks and last for a long time. Locally sourced stone flooring in hot climates is becoming an increasingly popular option since it helps keep your home cool during the hot days of summer. Meanwhile, a temperature-controlled tile floor is great for luxury homeowners. Talk to your contractor about the best options for your home.

5. Solar panels

On your mission to help the planet, the best thing you can do is install solar panels. These durable home features promote energy independence and lower your monthly electric bills. Though the cost of installation might be high, it will pay you back in the long run. When you’re ready to lead a more eco-friendly lifestyle, consider these tips to start your journey on the right foot.