Creative Ways to Live More Sustainably in Urban Apartments

4 August 2025

Hey there, city dwellers! Living in an urban apartment doesn’t mean you have to kiss sustainability goodbye. Sure, you might not have a backyard for composting or room for a solar panel farm, but trust me, you can still lower your carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort (or style).

Let’s talk about some seriously creative ways to live more sustainably, all while embracing that apartment life.

1. Get Smart with Energy Usage

Let’s be real: energy bills in city apartments can be ridiculous. But instead of just sighing and accepting it, why not take control?

Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting

If you're still using those ancient incandescent bulbs, honey, it's time for an upgrade. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer. Plus, they come in all kinds of cozy hues to set the perfect vibe for your space.

Unplug, Baby, Unplug!

Ever heard of phantom energy drain? Your gadgets and appliances keep sucking up power even when they’re turned off—just to stay in standby mode. Get yourself a smart power strip or just, you know, unplug things when you’re not using them.

Adjust Your Thermostat (or Fake It Till You Make It)

If you’ve got control over your thermostat, consider turning it down a few degrees in winter and up a few degrees in summer. If you’re at the mercy of central heating/cooling, go for thick curtains, cozy rugs, and even a door draft stopper to trap warmth in or block the heat out.

2. Water Conservation: Small Changes, Big Impact

Water is precious, and city apartments tend to waste a lot of it. Here’s how to change that:

Shorten Those Showers

You don’t need to stand under the hot water rethinking every life decision. Set a timer—5 to 7 minutes max. Bonus points if you install a low-flow showerhead, which can save thousands of gallons per year.

Collect & Reuse Water

No, I’m not asking you to bathe in your dishwater (ew). But simple things like catching excess water from rinsing your veggies and using it to water your houseplants? Genius.

3. Cut Down on Waste Like a Boss

If your trash bin fills up at an alarming rate, it’s time for a reality check. Waste = bad news for the planet, but you can totally reduce it.

Ditch the Single-Use Plastics

Start small—get yourself a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and shopping bags. Feeling extra bold? Go for beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap and glass or stainless steel food containers instead of Tupperware.

Compost (Yes, Even in an Apartment!)

No backyard? No problem. Bokashi bins and worm composting systems can work in even the tiniest apartments. You can also check out community composting programs if you’re not down for a wormy roommate.

Upcycle Like a Pro

Before tossing old clothes, furniture, or jars into the trash, ask yourself: Can I repurpose this? Old T-shirts become cleaning rags, glass jars make adorable plant pots, and that worn-out chair? A little DIY magic, and it’s brand new again.

4. Shop Sustainably Without Going Broke

Let’s be honest—sustainable shopping sometimes feels expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.

Secondhand is Your Best Friend

Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Poshmark can be goldmines for stylish, budget-friendly, eco-conscious finds.

Support Local & Sustainable Brands

Buying from local businesses and ethical brands means fewer transportation emissions, plus you’re supporting small businesses. It’s a win-win.

Bulk Buying = Less Waste

If you’re lucky enough to have a bulk-buy store nearby, stock up on essentials like grains, pasta, and spices using your own containers. Less packaging = less waste.

5. Green Up Your Space with Plants (Because, Obviously)

Bringing a little greenery into your apartment isn’t just trendy; it’s necessary.

Pick Air-Purifying Plants

Did you know houseplants can actually clean the air? Plants like snake plants, pothos, and peace lilies help remove toxins while making your space look cute.

Start a Mini Indoor Herb Garden

No backyard for a garden? No worries. Basil, mint, rosemary, and other herbs can thrive on a sunny windowsill. Plus, nothing beats fresh herbs in your cooking. Goodbye, sad grocery-store basil!

6. Rethink Transportation Within City Limits

This one depends on your city, but most urban areas offer solid alternatives to gas-guzzling cars.

Public Transport > Driving Alone

Buses, subways, trams—use them when you can. Bonus: No parking stress!

Walk or Bike More

If your destination is a 15-minute walk away, do you really need an Uber? Walking and biking are not only sustainable but great for your health, too.

Carpool or Ride-Share Smartly

If you must drive, find a carpool buddy or use ride-sharing services wisely. Fewer solo trips = fewer emissions.

7. Reduce Your Reliance on Fast Fashion

Fast fashion is an environmental disaster. Clothes made cheaply, worn briefly, then tossed out do serious damage.

Build a Capsule Wardrobe

Simplify your closet by focusing on high-quality, versatile pieces that don’t go out of style. Think: jeans that actually fit, neutral tops, and statement outerwear.

Thrift & Swap Clothes

Instead of hitting up fast fashion sales, check out thrift stores or host a clothing swap with friends. It’s fun, free, and sustainable.

8. Conserve Resources in the Kitchen

Your kitchen is where sustainability can really shine.

Meal Plan to Reduce Food Waste

Planning your meals means fewer impulse buys that'll just rot in your fridge. Get creative with leftovers and store food properly to make it last longer.

Say No to Excess Packaging

Buy loose produce when possible, hit up bulk bins, and say goodbye to individually wrapped snacks (seriously, why do cucumbers need plastic wrapping?).

Switch to Reusable Kitchen Items

Swap paper towels for cloth, use silicone baking mats instead of parchment paper, and invest in reusable food storage.

Final Thoughts: Sustainability is About Progress, Not Perfection

No one is asking you to go zero-waste overnight. Small, intentional changes can add up in huge ways. The key? Find what works for you and stick with it.

Urban living doesn’t have to mean excessive waste and unsustainable habits. With just a little effort and creativity, you can reduce your footprint, live greener, and still have that chic apartment aesthetic you love.

Sustainable city living? *Challenge accepted.