Simple Living Done Simply

Sustainability is a buzzword that spans multiple industries and segments of American society today. You see it used in the construction trades – for both industrial and residential projects – and among government figures attempting to institute "green" initiatives. Wherever sustainability is preached, the eco-friendly lifestyle depends on a firm commitment from the end user, however – simple living. Without simplifying our lives, sustainable practices will never take root.

In common practice, however, living simply is simpler said than done. America is consumed with consumerism, which urges people to buy products at every turn and demands that companies produce ever more to support the binge.

Proponents of simple living have recently noted some good news: since the recent recession, Americans have reached a tipping point and made a major turn, saving more in their bank accounts. This phenomenon is counterintuitive in our country, where typically during an economic downturn consumers usually extend their lines of credit and dip into savings. In 2006, for every $100 Americans under the age of 35 earned, they spent $117. In the first half of 2009, for the first time in years, they were saving about $5 for every $100.

Spending less equates to less products being manufactured, which has a domino effect: manufacturing facilities use less raw material to make products, and fewer delivery trucks on the road means less emissions. Although this may not bode well for the economy overall in terms of America’s gross domestic product, it can be great news for the environment.

In terms of cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions, reducing or eliminating the daily commute by opting for walking, biking or public transit is a popular simple-living strategy. Of course, this is may not be possible for those living too far from their jobs, but car-pooling never goes out of style. For taking trips outside of your employment, walk, bike or take the bus or subway when possible. For those times when driving is essential, combine several errands into one trip, further simplifying your to-do list.

Those who are sold on the simple living model usually incorporate most things local, such as the nearby farmer’s market. Eating fresh is always a healthier option, but reducing purchases from the large grocery store also reduces the emissions from delivery trucks all the way down the supply chain. This form of sustainability supports local farmers and beckons back to a simpler time when local produce and foodstuffs was all that was available. It also can be argued that those where days filled with less stress, both on individuals and the environment!

Simple living and the current downsizing and small-home trend go hand-in-hand. In smaller homes, functionality is king, and the simplicity of proximity adds to a smaller home’s allure: the kitchen is never too far from the living room, which is usually very accessible from the bedroom. With these homes, it really is all about creating quality living spaces with sustainability in mind.


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Andrzej Kozlowski has written numerous articles on topics ranging from home downsizing to simple living. He is also editor and co-author of the book, "Living Smart: The Money Saving, Eco-Friendly Guide to Downsizing Your Home and Belongings."