Green Your Lifestyle
6 Simple Shifts That Actually Make a Difference
I’m writing this after completing a two-day GREEN Designation course for real estate—and I have to say, I’m feeling incredibly inspired. There was so much valuable information about energy efficiency, sustainability, and how we can build and live in ways that better support both our health and the environment. So, I’ve decided to start sharing some of it here in my blog section—practical, approachable ideas that we can all start using.
So here we go.
Living more sustainably doesn’t mean going completely off-grid or overhauling your whole home. It’s often the small, consistent changes that create the most impact—on your energy use, your health, and the land we all share.
Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just trying to live more intentionally on Maui, these are a few simple ways to lighten your footprint and create a more mindful living environment.
1. Recycle—But Go Beyond the Basics
Most of us recycle plastics, paper, and glass—but that’s just scratching the surface. Take a look at what you’re bringing into your home in the first place. Can you choose products with less packaging or made from recycled content? Can you safely dispose of household chemicals, batteries, and electronics instead of tossing them in the trash?
2. Rethink Kitchen Waste
Food waste is one of the easiest things to reduce. Instead of sending scraps to the landfill, compost them. Even things like wooden spoons, paper towels, and cardboard Q-tips are compostable. You can start with a simple countertop bin or go full backyard compost pile—whatever fits your lifestyle.
Check out mastercomposter.com or epa.gov if you want to learn more. It’s way easier than it sounds.
3. Cut Back on Everyday Toxins
I’ve worked in a lot of homes, and I can tell you—what’s inside matters just as much as what’s outside. From cleaning products to furniture and cookware, so many items off-gas chemicals that impact your indoor air quality and your health.
Look for non-toxic or low-VOC options when buying new. Skip the synthetic materials where you can. And read the labels. If you don’t know what’s in it, maybe rethink bringing it into your home.
4. Clean in a Way That’s Safe for You and the Island
We’ve all been trained to associate a lemony scent with “clean”—but often, those products are loaded with harsh chemicals. A lot of what’s under the sink isn’t good for you, your pets, or the planet.
Try mixing your own cleaners with baking soda, vinegar, and lemon. Or look for green-certified products that work just as well without the toxicity. I have seen great cleaning videos on instagram !
5. Be Smart About How You Get Around
Let’s be real—Maui is a driving island. But that doesn’t mean we can’t be more mindful. Can you combine errands, carpool, or ride your bike when it makes sense? Even cutting out a couple of trips each week helps.
6. Water Smarter
If you’re caring for a yard or garden, drip irrigation is a game changer. It delivers water right to the roots where plants need it most—reducing evaporation and runoff. Adding timers, sensors, or rain shutoff devices can help you avoid watering when it’s not needed.
It’s not only better for the environment—it saves you money and keeps your plants healthier.
Living lighter doesn’t mean doing everything perfectly. It just means being intentional—thinking about the long-term impact of our choices and doing the best we can with what we have. This is barely scratching the surface, but maybe we can all pick one thing to work on. Everything affects everything, and choosing a place to start is powerful.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling and want to explore homes with sustainable features—or how to make your own home more energy-efficient—I’m always happy to talk through the options.
Wendy Ruppenthal
Realtor® RS-86378
Coldwell Banker Island Properties
| 808.280.9991
