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Writer's pictureAlexandra Nicolau

What is Sustainable Living?

Updated: Apr 2


Are you confused about the buzz around sustainable living, especially when it comes to architecture and design? You're not alone! Let's dive into this topic and break it down in a way that's easy to understand. Whether you're a sustainability enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the eco-conscious waters, this article will help you grasp the basic concept of sustainable living... In the words of Dame Julie Andrews, Let's start at the very beginning!


Stepping into a sustainable future
"The starting point is not design, the starting point is sustainability" quote by Stella McCartney.

Sustainable Luxury Demystified: A Beginner's Guide


Stepping into the world of sustainable luxury living is like ordering a gourmet, sumptuous salad and feeling satisfied, not deprived. It's about making choices that leave our home planet better, or at least not worse than we found it. This means reducing waste, conserving energy, and embracing materials that don't harm the environment. It's all about everyday choices and being mindful of the impact our decisions have on the world and the people around us. As per the United Nations Environment Programme, "sustainable living means understanding how our lifestyle choices impact the world around us and finding ways for everyone to live better and lighter."


But here's the kicker—it doesn't mean giving up luxuries or living in a treehouse (unless that's your thing!).


Sustainable living can take many forms:

  • Reducing your energy consumption: Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug electronics when not in use, and adjust your clothing to the season to avoid dashing to the thermostat.

  • Conserving water: Take shorter showers, fix leaky taps, and opt for garden plants that thrive in your local climate.

  • Eating less meat: Meat production is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, so consider incorporating beans and pulses into your diet for a more eco-friendly protein source - they are not just better for the environment, but our pockets and our tummies should be grateful too!

  • Buying local products and seasonal produce: This helps to reduce the environmental impact of transportation and storage, as well as help circulate local economy.

  • Reducing, reusing, and recycling: Avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable products, and make recycling a part of your routine


Shopping at a zero waste store
Most grocery stores and supermarkets allow you to bring your own containers and bags to reduce the overuse of plastic

Sustainability Starts at Home


When it comes to sustainable living, your home is your playground and sanctuary. This is where green architecture, eco-friendly design, and smart shopping come into play.


Sustainable architecture is the practice of designing and building spaces that minimise their environmental impact whilst providing maximum comfort. It's all about using local resources, organic materials and/or energy-efficient designs. Can you imagine a house that stays cozy in the winter and cool in the summer without guzzling energy like a toddler with a bottomless milkshake? It's real. Check out this Passive House built in Mallorca with biomaterials like cork insulation and smart ventilation systems that don't require heating installations. Not too shabby, is it?


And if you're looking for celebrity endorsements, it's got quite the fan club. What do Leonardo DiCaprio, Adele and Johnny Depp have in common other than being superstars? These celebrities all own and advocate for sustainable homes.


Celebrities with eco-friendly homes: Adele, Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio and more
Celebrities with eco-friendly homes: Adele, Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio and more from "Hello Magazine"

Where to Begin?


In future articles, we'll delve deeper into the world of sustainable real estate; from what to do, to why it matters; from how to get started, to how much sustainable homes cost. Make sure to follow our updates for green living tips, industry expert insights, sustainable building methods, design ideas, and more.


Meanwhile, think of sustainable living as the secret recipe for your best life. It may seem overwhelming, but sustainability isn't a chore; it's a choice. In the short term, sustainable living can positively impact your health, your family's well-being, and those around you.


Your Journey to Luxury Sustainable Living


Looking to find or build your sustainable sanctuary? This brings us to Kerridwen Green Real Estate. We're all about sustainable luxury living. Our homes aren't just four walls and a roof; they're a lifestyle statement. If you're ready to embrace the green revolution without sacrificing life's finer things, you've come to the right place.


Luxury sustainable penthouse
Luxury interiors at award-winning, energy efficient buildings with A-certified energy consumption rating.

Let's make the world a better place, one eco-friendly home at a time. Check out Kerridwen Green's website to see how we're turning sustainable dreams into reality.



Still daunted? Start small, make it fun, and get involved in your community. In the end, sustainable living is about living well—without compromising the future. So, cheers to a life that's luxurious, green, and just plain good!



This 3-minute read is brought to you by Alexandra Nicolau, Founder & CEO of Kerridwen Green Real Estate, and expert in sustainability for business with over 20-years experience.


KERRIDWEN GREEN, your guides and partners for sustainable living and eco luxury real estate. Subscribe here to receive articles from our Living Green blog, and keep up to date on all matters sustainable.

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