Last Updated on January 7, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
While there are many different aspects to sustainability, one area that is sure to continue growing in popularity is sustainable materials for the home.
The sustainable Interior decor trend is shaping the industry landscape and even making waves among Instagram interior influencers, as mentioned in our post last year listing the most coveted trends on Instagram.
From influencers posting about their low-waste lifestyles to brands promoting sustainable products, it's clear that sustainable living is here to stay.
As we head into 2024, expect to see more people embrace sustainable materials in their homes!
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
Part of the reason sustainable materials are becoming more popular is because of the growing awareness of the impact our choices have on the environment.
However, another significant factor is that these materials simply look better and feel better than their mass-produced counterparts.
Consumers are becoming more aware of their choices' environmental impact, and they're looking for ways to reduce their footprint.
Vintage textiles and fabrics produced sustainably are going to be big.
Responsible companies with sustainability at their core will thrive as consumers seek out ethically made products that will last a lifetime.
Handmade items will be in high demand as people look for ways to support small businesses and slow down the pace of mass production.
When you are ready to start shopping for sustainable home decor, the first step is understanding what materials are environmentally friendly.
Look for items made from bamboo, jute, cork, wool, organic cotton, and other natural fibers. These materials are all biodegradable and will break down naturally over time.
In addition to using sustainable materials, you can also look for home decor made from recycled materials.
Recycled glass, metal, and plastic can all be used to create beautiful and unique home decor items.
By shopping for recycled goods, you keep these materials out of landfills and give them a new life.
Many types of sustainable materials can be used in interior design. The most popular sustainable materials include bamboo, jute, cork, wool, organic cotton, and terrazzo.
These materials are all renewable resources that can be used to create beautiful and eco-friendly interiors.
Wheat straw plastic, also known as straw plastic or straw polymer, is a type of bioplastic made from agricultural by-products, specifically the stalks left over after wheat grains are harvested.
These stalks, known as wheat straw, are rich in cellulose, a natural polymer in plant cell walls.
Making wheat straw plastic involves extracting cellulose from the wheat straw and combining it with a polymer matrix to create a material that can substitute for traditional plastics.
The polymer matrix is often biodegradable or compostable, making wheat straw plastic more environmentally friendly than conventional plastics derived from fossil fuels.
The key benefits of wheat straw plastic include:
It's important to note that while wheat straw plastic has environmental advantages, the extent of these benefits can depend on factors such as the specific production process, the additives used, and the end-of-life disposal methods.
Additionally, "wheat straw plastic" may refer to various materials, and their properties can vary. As with any material, it's essential to consider the product's entire life cycle and environmental impact.
An eco-friendly and durable kitchenware set that includes microwavable plates, bowls, cups, and utensils for four people.
When it comes to eco-friendly furniture, bamboo is one of the best materials you can choose.
Bamboo grows incredibly quickly, so it's a sustainable resource that doesn't strain the environment. Plus, it's solid and durable, so your furniture will last years.
Bamboo furniture has a beautiful natural grain that adds warmth and character to any space. It's also versatile—it can be used in traditional and contemporary settings.
Jute is a sustainable and durable material made from the fibers of the jute plant.
It has a natural, earthy look that can add warmth and texture to any room and can be used in various ways to add a stylish touch to your home.
From rugs and cushions to table runners and wall hangings, our jute home decor items will make a statement.
Cork is a sustainable material made from the bark of cork oak trees. It can be used for flooring, walls, or even ceiling tiles.
Cork is naturally anti-microbial and hypoallergenic, so it's ideal for homes with allergies or pets.
Wool is a natural fiber that is both renewable and biodegradable. It is also highly durable, making it perfect for home decor that will last for years with proper care.
Wool rugs and blankets are a great way to add comfort and style to your home while knowing that you are doing your part to help the environment.
Wool is also naturally fire-resistant and repels water, making it an excellent choice for heavy traffic or moisture areas.
Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful chemicals.
It is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option than conventional cotton, which is why it is becoming more popular in home decor.
Organic cotton is softer and more durable than conventional cotton, making it ideal for bedding, towels, and other textiles. It is also hypoallergenic, so it is a good choice for people with allergies or sensitivities.
Terrazzo is an eco-friendly and sustainable material that has been used in interior design for centuries. It is made from recycled glass, marble, or granite chips bound together with concrete or epoxy resin.
Terrazzo is durable, easy to clean, and can be refurbished or repaired if damaged. It is also a low-maintenance option for your home's flooring, countertops, and other surfaces.
By investing in sustainable materials for your home decor, you are not only creating a beautiful living space but also helping protect the planet from further damage.
It's exciting to see sustainability becoming mainstream, and we can't wait to see what new trends emerge in the coming years!
