Friday, May 18, 2012

Going Green

As the world braces for the threat of global warming, the movement towards sustainable, non-destructive consumption behavior has become more of a necessity. Unlike before when being sustainable meant going for expensive, inefficient, un-stylish products, these days the green revolution has become cool, chic and responsible. Thanks to the creative effort of the design community and manufacturers that brought craftsmanship and quality to support the movement to protect the environment.

As we look around, things have started to go green. Organic food has come full swing into the market. Hybrid cars are racking up sales of car dealerships. Recycled paper, recyclable plastics and biodegradable packaging is in. Even appliances are more power conservative and traditional lighting systems are being replaced by longer-lasting, more efficient bulbs. In terms of fashion and lifestyle, natural stones, wood and beads have taken over the shelves.

Inside the home, interior designs have moved into the green trend. Wood and green are in, while plastic and synthetic fibers are out. There are more natural sunlight and air to save on electrical consumption. Power and water utilization have become more efficient. In terms of furniture and decoration, the trend is going to earth colors and natural materials. Even recycled items like metals and plastics have become very popular for use as decoration and accents.

The movement to green design and green homes started in Europe but has gained ground in the United States and even in Asia in recent years. Looking back, it all started with efficiency and utility. Cities that were having problems in power or power rates created markets for houses that use more of the sun for light. Those who have limited supply of water started installing dual piping systems that recycle waste water for industrial use – like flushing or watering the animals. Some started installing solar panels to heat their water for shower.

However, as the threat of global warming increased, so did the demand of responsible consumers. Buyers have started to demand from their retailers for organic and sustainable products. Retailers, in turn, demanded from manufacturers, designers and innovators to go green. The answer at first was simple. The government or some private organizations certify products to be green without using non biodegradable materials or plastics.

This whole new market pushed designers and style came catching up. Designers embraced the challenge of creating beautiful furniture and decoration out of what was mundane wood planks or inert trees. Natural fibers, which have disappeared with the onset of cheaper plastic threads, are making a big comeback. This also ushered the renaissance of antique, which is actually saving trees from being cut to make more furniture.

The green revolution in the home was actually a product of a consumer base clamoring for change and taking responsibility for the environment. And this is bound to continue and the producers and designers have no choice but to keep up.

Take advantage of your visit to www.forcedevie.com by bookmarking or sharing us below.