Green Living: 10 Eco-Friendly Tips

Asheville is known for its natural beauty, sustainability-focused community, and love for the environment. Living in this beautiful part of North Carolina inspires many to adopt greener habits—but sustainable living isn’t just for homeowners.

If you live in an apartment, there are plenty of simple and impactful ways to embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle. At Ellison at the Preserve, our apartments in Asheville NC are designed to support modern living with sustainability in mind. Whether you're just starting your green journey or looking to expand your habits, these tips will help you reduce your footprint and live cleaner, smarter, and more consciously.

1. Switch to LED Lighting

One of the easiest eco-upgrades is swapping out incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs. They last longer, use less energy, and save money on your electric bill. Many apartments already include LED lighting—Ellison at the Preserve does—but you can take it a step further with energy-smart lamps and fixtures.

2. Unplug and Power Down

Even when turned off, many devices still draw power (called “phantom energy”). Combat this by unplugging items like toasters, chargers, and entertainment systems when not in use—or plug them into a smart power strip that automatically cuts power to idle devices.

3. Conserve Water

Water-saving habits go a long way, even in an apartment. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, run full loads in the dishwasher or washing machine, and opt for shorter showers. Bonus: Ellison at the Preserve features water-efficient appliances to help reduce overall usage.

4. Go Green with Plants

Bring nature indoors with houseplants! They help purify the air, reduce stress, and make your space feel vibrant and alive. Native or low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plants, and peace lilies are perfect for apartment dwellers and require minimal upkeep.

5. Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Ditch the plastic and invest in reusable alternatives. Keep a set of tote bags by your door for grocery runs, use refillable water bottles, and try beeswax wraps or reusable containers instead of plastic wrap and baggies.

6. Recycle Properly

If your apartment community offers recycling (Ellison at the Preserve does!), take advantage of it. Learn what your local recycling center accepts—contamination can prevent materials from being processed. Clean out containers before tossing and separate materials properly.

7. Shop Local and Sustainable

Support Asheville’s local markets, eco-conscious businesses, and farm-to-table restaurants. Shopping locally reduces transportation emissions and supports your community. Try to buy items made from recycled, biodegradable, or renewable materials whenever possible.

8. Use Green Cleaning Products

Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment—and your health. Switch to natural or non-toxic cleaners made with plant-based ingredients. Or, make your own using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.

9. Embrace Minimalism

Living sustainably also means consuming less. Think quality over quantity—invest in durable items, reduce clutter, and donate what you don’t use. A minimalist lifestyle means less waste, more space, and a clearer mind.

10. Get Involved in Your Community

Green living extends beyond your front door. Participate in local clean-up days, attend sustainability events, or join eco-focused groups in Asheville. Being involved helps build connections and strengthens your commitment to an earth-friendly lifestyle.

Why Green Living Matters at Ellison at the Preserve

At Ellison at the Preserve, we believe a great living experience should also be a sustainable one. That’s why our apartments in Asheville NC are built with thoughtful design, energy-efficient appliances, and eco-friendly materials that support a cleaner, greener lifestyle.

Our location also puts you close to nature, local farmers markets, and outdoor recreation—so you can live in harmony with the environment while enjoying all the modern comforts of home.

Want to live in a space that supports your values?
Explore available floor plans and features at: https://www.ellisonpreserve.com

Green living doesn’t require a major lifestyle overhaul. With a few intentional changes, you can reduce your environmental impact, save money, and create a healthier living space. From LED bulbs to reusable goods and conscious consumption, every small step adds up.

And when you live in a community like Ellison at the Preserve, it’s even easier to align your space with your values. Live well. Live consciously. Live green.