10 Sustainable Design Innovations for a Greener Future

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 18 July 2023 10 min read

1. Build with Recycled Materials

2. Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances

4. Implement Rainwater Harvesting

5. Integrate Green Roofs and Walls

7. Focus on Indoor Air Quality

9. Apply Biomimicry Principles

10. Utilize Local and Sustainable Materials

When it comes to the future of our planet, every little bit counts. That's why we're looking at "sustainable design: innovations for a greener future." This isn't just about being trendy or jumping on the green bandwagon. It's about creating a sustainable future, one design decision at a time. From the buildings we live in to the appliances we use, every choice can make a difference. Ready to join this eco-friendly journey? Let's dive in.

1. Build with Recycled Materials

We're kicking off our list of sustainable design strategies with the idea of building with recycled materials. Now, you might be thinking, "Recycled materials? But won't that make my house look like a garbage dump?" Not at all! In fact, recycled materials can add unique charm and character to your space, all while reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

Architectural Salvage: Old buildings often have a wealth of materials that can be reused. Think wooden beams, old bricks, even antique doorknobs. Companies like Urban Miners in Connecticut, US specialize in reclaiming these materials for new projects.
Recycled Glass and Metal: Recycled glass can become gorgeous countertops or backsplashes, while recycled metal might find a second life as a sleek, modern staircase. Companies like Vetrazzo and Eleek are leading the way in these areas.
Reclaimed Wood: Old barns, factories, even fallen trees can provide beautiful, durable wood for flooring, furniture, or trim. There are local businesses in almost every state, like Reclaimed Wood Seattle in Washington, providing these kinds of materials.

When you build with recycled materials, you're not just creating a home or an office. You're taking part in a bigger story — a story of conservation, resilience, and sustainable design that paves the way for a greener future.

2. Invest in Energy Efficient Appliances

Next on our list of sustainable design: innovations for a greener future is investing in energy-efficient appliances. A significant chunk of our energy use at home comes from our appliances. So, swapping out your old fridge or washing machine for a more energy-efficient model can make a big difference.

But how do you know which appliances are the most energy-efficient? Here's a quick guide:

Look for the Energy Star Label: This label is your best friend when shopping for appliances. It means the product meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Consider the Size: Bigger isn't always better. Choose the size that fits your needs. For instance, a family of four probably doesn't need a commercial-grade fridge. The bigger the appliance, the more energy it uses.
Check the Energy Guide: This yellow and black label gives you an estimate of how much energy the appliance uses and compares it to the energy use of similar products.

Investing in energy efficient appliances might seem like a small step, but remember, every little bit counts when it comes to sustainable design and a greener future. Plus, you'll save money on your energy bills — now that's what we call a win-win situation!

3. Adopt Solar Power

Nothing screams "sustainable design: innovations for a greener future" quite like solar power. It's the poster child for renewable energy, and for good reason. Solar power is abundant, clean, and, best of all, free (after installation, of course).

So, how does it work? The sun shines on solar panels, which are made of solar cells. These solar cells convert sunlight into electricity that you can use to power your home. It's like having your own personal power plant, right on your roof!

But, don't worry if you think your roof isn't big enough, or if you live in a city where space is at a premium. There are plenty of innovative solar solutions out there designed to fit all kinds of spaces. For instance:

Solar Windows: Imagine a window that not only lets in light, but also generates electricity. That's the idea behind solar windows. They're coated with a special material that captures and converts sunlight into power.
Portable Solar Panels: These are just what they sound like: solar panels you can take with you. They're great for camping trips or for people who rent their homes and can't install permanent solar panels.

Adopting solar power is a major step towards a more sustainable future. It's a smart long-term investment that pays off not only in lower energy bills, but also in reduced carbon emissions. So, why not let the sun shine in?

4. Implement Rainwater Harvesting

Have you ever watched a heavy rainstorm and thought about all that water just going to waste? Well, in the world of sustainable design, it doesn't have to. Enter: rainwater harvesting—a simple yet ingenious way to conserve water and create a greener future.

Here's the basic idea: You capture rainwater on your property, store it, and then use it for things like watering your garden or flushing your toilet. It's a great way to reduce your water bills, and it's also a boon for the environment. The less water you pull from the municipal supply, the more you help preserve our precious water resources.

So, how do you get started with rainwater harvesting? Here are a couple of tips:

Install Rain Barrels: Rain barrels are a simple and cost-effective way to start harvesting rainwater. You can place them under your downspouts to capture runoff from your roof. Just be sure to cover them to keep out debris and mosquitoes.
Consider a Cistern: If you're serious about rainwater harvesting, you might want to think about installing a cistern. These large storage tanks can hold a lot of water, which means you can save even more.

Remember, every drop counts. Implementing rainwater harvesting is a practical step you can take right now to create a more sustainable future. Plus, it's kind of cool to think that the water you're using to water your plants was once up in the clouds, isn't it?

5. Integrate Green Roofs and Walls

Imagine looking out of your window and instead of seeing a dull, grey rooftop or wall, you see a vibrant garden full of life. This isn't just a nice fantasy— it's a real sustainable design strategy! Green roofs and walls are a great way to bring a slice of nature into urban environments, and they have a whole host of benefits too!

First off, green roofs and walls provide a habitat for birds, insects, and other creatures, which is a huge win for biodiversity. Plus, they act as a natural insulator, keeping your building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can help to significantly reduce your energy use, which is good news for your wallet and the planet!

Here are a few ways you can incorporate green roofs and walls into your designs:

Simple Green Roofs: Also known as extensive green roofs, these are covered with a light layer of vegetation, such as moss or sedum. They're relatively easy to install and don't require much maintenance.
Complex Green Roofs: These are like full-scale gardens on your roof, with a wide variety of plants and even trees. They require more work to install and maintain, but the benefits are worth it.
Green Walls: These vertical gardens can be installed indoors or outdoors. They're a great way to add greenery to a space without taking up much room.

Green roofs and walls might sound futuristic, but they're a key part of sustainable design: innovations for a greener future. So why not give them a try? You'll be doing your bit for the planet, and your building will look pretty amazing too.

6. Promote Natural Lighting

Who doesn't love a room filled with natural light? It's a mood booster, it's free, and it's a key element in sustainable design. Allowing more natural light in your buildings doesn't just bring a warm, welcoming atmosphere—it also reduces dependence on artificial lighting, decreasing energy consumption. It's a win-win for you and Mother Earth.

There are several ways to maximize natural light in your designs:

Windows: Large windows are a straightforward way to let more sunlight in. However, it's important to consider their placement—windows facing the sun will maximize light intake, but they might also bring in unwanted heat during summer. Good shading can help you get the best of both worlds.
Skylights: These are windows installed in the roof, allowing sunlight to penetrate deep into the building. They can significantly brighten up spaces that would otherwise rely heavily on artificial light.
Light Shelves: These are horizontal surfaces that reflect daylight deep into a room. They're particularly effective in high-ceilinged spaces.

Remember, it's not just about flooding your buildings with light—it's about controlling and using that light effectively. For instance, you can use blinds and curtains to control the amount and direction of light. Some buildings even use automated systems that adjust window shades according to the time of day and season.

So next time you design a building, think about how you can make the most of natural light. It's a bright idea for sustainable design: innovations for a greener future.

7. Focus on Indoor Air Quality

Imagine you're in a room. The windows are closed, and you're breathing in the same stale air over and over. Doesn't sound too pleasant, does it? Now, imagine if that air was filled with pollutants. That's a situation nobody wants to find themselves in. This scenario shows why indoor air quality is a major concern in sustainable design.

When designing a building, you need to make sure that it provides a safe and healthy environment for the people inside. One way to do this is by improving indoor air quality. Here's how:

Proper Ventilation: A good ventilation system can keep fresh air flowing through a building, helping to remove pollutants. It's like giving your building lungs!
Non-Toxic Materials: Many building materials release harmful substances into the air over time. By choosing non-toxic materials, you can reduce this "off-gassing" and create a healthier environment.
Plants: Indoor plants aren't just for decoration—they can also improve air quality. Some plants can absorb certain pollutants, acting as natural air purifiers. Plus, they look nice!

Now, you might be wondering: "But isn't this going to cost a lot?" Well, not necessarily. Yes, some sustainable materials might be more expensive initially, but they can save you money in the long run. Plus, the health benefits are priceless.

Remember, good air quality isn't just about comfort—it's about health. By focusing on indoor air quality, you're not just creating a more sustainable design, you're also contributing to a greener and healthier future.

8. Encourage Waste Reduction

Ever heard of the saying, "Waste not, want not?" Well, it couldn't be truer when it comes to sustainable design. The less waste we generate, the lighter our footprint on the environment. But how can you, as a designer, encourage waste reduction? Let's break it down:

Design for Durability: Products that last longer reduce the need for replacement, which in turn reduces waste. So, aim for durability—make it a key feature of your design.
Modular Design: Remember those LEGO blocks you loved as a kid? Well, think of modular design as LEGO for adults. It involves designing in modules or sections that can be easily replaced or updated, instead of throwing the whole thing away.
Recyclable Materials: If a product can't last forever, it should at least be recyclable. Designing with recyclable materials means that when a product reaches the end of its life, its materials can be used to create something new.

By incorporating waste reduction into your design strategy, you're not just creating a more sustainable product, but you're also helping to pave the way for a greener future. After all, we only have one Earth—shouldn't we do everything we can to take care of it?

So, next time you're sketching out a design, remember: it's not just about making something that looks good. It's about creating something that does good too. And that's the real beauty of sustainable design: innovations for a greener future.

9. Apply Biomimicry Principles

Ever wondered how birds navigate vast distances without a GPS? Or how a gecko can effortlessly stick to surfaces? Nature has a knack for designing efficient systems and organisms, and the field of biomimicry seeks to emulate these natural models in human-made designs. So, how can you apply biomimicry in your sustainable design? Let me break it down for you:

Observe: The first step is to observe nature. Look at how plants, animals and natural systems function. You'll be amazed at the innovative ways they solve problems!
Emulate: Next, think about how you can apply these natural solutions to your design. For example, the Velcro was inspired by the way burrs stick to animal fur. Just imagine what other everyday products could be revolutionized by nature’s genius!
Iterate: Finally, like nature, be prepared to iterate. Nature is constantly evolving, and your designs should too. Don’t be afraid to refine and improve upon your ideas.

By applying biomimicry principles, you'll be taking a leaf out of nature's book—literally. You'll also be contributing to sustainable design, which is all about creating innovations for a greener future. Remember, it's not just about creating a design that functions well, it's about creating a design that functions well and is kind to our planet. Now, isn't that a concept worth exploring?

10. Utilize Local and Sustainable Materials

Ever been to a local farmers market? You know, the place where the tomatoes taste like actual tomatoes and you can chat with the farmer who grew them? There's a certain satisfaction in buying local. But what if I told you that the same concept can be applied to sustainable design?

Utilizing local and sustainable materials in your designs is a fantastic way to contribute to a greener future. Here's why:

Lower Carbon Footprint: Materials sourced locally require less transportation, which means fewer emissions. So, by using local materials, you're helping reduce your carbon footprint. Pretty cool, right?
Supports Local Economy: By choosing local materials, you're supporting local businesses and suppliers. It's like giving your community a big thumbs up!
Sustainable: Sustainable materials are those which are renewable and have minimal impact on the environment. Think bamboo, cork, or recycled metal. These materials not only reduce the depletion of our natural resources but are often more durable and require less maintenance. Win-win, wouldn't you say?

So next time you're planning a design project, remember to think local and sustainable. It's a simple change that can make a big difference in our quest for a greener future. After all, sustainable design is all about innovations for a greener future, and what could be more innovative than rethinking where our materials come from?

If you're inspired by sustainable design and want to incorporate it into your career, don't miss the workshop 'How to Create a Sustainable Career' by Chase Coy. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights on how to build a successful and environmentally-conscious career in the creative industry.