The Great Green Sustainability Survey

Like any creative decision, homeowners will have their own priorities when considering purchasing a sustainable home décor product. This was evident from the survey, which found the most important factors among homeowners when it comes to buying an item were cost (51%), quality (49%), and whether it could help lower bills (36%).

Those aged 55-64 accounted for the highest proportion (57%) of homeowners who prioritise the cost of a product before purchasing, while most younger homeowners (18-24) are most concerned with whether buying an item would show support for a cause or charity (57%)[2] . Older generations had this lower in their list of priorities, as 12% of those aged 64+ also deemed supporting a charity or cause as an important factor.

When it comes to energy saving and lowering bills - a key concern for many as we head into winter - younger homeowners (18-24) are the age group that cares the most (42%), which makes sense given that they’re more likely to be on a lower income and therefore most interested in cutting costs.

Meanwhile, on a regional level, the North East is most concerned (44%) with lowering energy or water bills, and London (35%) is the region which most prioritises thermal efficiency.

This is an understandable priority for many, given that research indicates 35% of heat escapes from a building via the walls, and gaps in or around windows and doors. Not only is this heat loss detrimental to comfort - it also means homeowners waste money trying to keep their home warm, impacting the environment as a result. To learn more about keeping your space comfy and warm, read our Curtains with Thermal Lining – Here’s How They Work blog.

The materials used to craft a home furnishing play a key role in its environmental impact - particularly those featuring plastic, wood and leather. They should be carefully considered by homeowners before they make a purchase.

Fortunately, this appears to be moving in the right direction, at least for some materials. The survey found that homeowners are most conscious of evaluating the environmental impact of plastic (37%) and wood (31%) before purchasing.

Younger homeowners (those aged 18-24) make up the largest proportion (50%) of those concerned with the sustainability of a wood product, as well as the impact of leather (52%). Meanwhile, on a regional level, it’s London homeowners that care the most (24%) about sustainable wood.

Darren Green, Managing Director, commented on the importance of using responsibly-sourced wood, saying: “Making items from wood isn’t automatically bad for the environment. By ensuring our products are made with wood sourced from responsibly-managed forests plays we can help to minimise the impact of deforestation and negative impact upon communities and wildlife.

“This also works to change society’s attitude towards sustainable materials on the whole. By making responsibly-sourced products more accessible and affordable – without compromising on style - means it’s easier for consumers to make eco-friendly choices and then enjoy them at home.”

Less sustainably sourced wood is that which is not FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) approved. This means it doesn’t meet the highest environmental standards when harvested and is often sourced through harmful practices.

Sylvia James weighs in on the versatility of eco-friendly alternatives, saying: “When it comes to aesthetics, many people choose home decor that works with the lighting, colour scheme and design of their home. Natural materials such as bamboo and cork are an increasingly attractive option because of their soft and versatile aesthetic.

“Bamboo and cork grow quickly and, in the case of cork, can be harvested without damaging the tree. And when paired with the sharp lines and crisp curves that can be achieved with modern manufacturing, these easily shapeable and readily available materials will continue to grow in popularity and therefore accessibility.”

More retailers are making the move to providing inexpensive and attractive products that utilise eco-friendly materials, to make purchasing these items an easier decision for shoppers.