The U.S. produces 268 million tons of waste — 140 million going into landfills — each year, with the average American tossing 4.5 pounds of trash per day.

I can't help but acknowledge that a good chunk of that waste is tied to materials that aren't exactly singing eco-friendly tunes. Enter sustainable interior design—a game-changer in crafting spaces that not only look fabulous but also champion the cause of our planet. It's about prioritizing materials, products, and practices that dance to an environmentally friendly beat, creating homes that are not just stylish but also breathe healthiness into our living spaces.

“By considering the use of sustainable materials and products in the design process, people can create a home that is both beautiful and promotes a healthier and earth-friendly lifestyle.”

Many of home brands partner with master artisans to genuinely support traditional crafts, and a few have ‘Fair Trade’ certifications, by using materials and products that are made from sustainable or renewable resources, such as bamboo or cork, and by choosing products that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins.

Check out some of the stars of sustainable home decor below:

1) Shades of Green

Shades of Green is committed to creating healthier living spaces by sourcing and selling only non-toxic, environmentally-friendly products, offering green design consultation, and providing the latest information on green building products and practices.

A vital part of our mission is to offer customers smart choices and real value through honest and transparent details about the toxic chemicals we are exposed to in many widely-used, conventionally-made products.

2) Folks &Tales

We create home goods that will infuse your interior with the authentic and diverse beauty of ancestral craftsmanship. Each product tells a specific story through its unique design and the hands of the artisan who patiently crafted it. By blending traditional shapes, patterns and materials with modern aesthetics and colors, we create authentic yet trendy pieces that will bring that coveted twist to your space.

3) Obakki

Obakki is a purpose-led lifestyle brand that connects people through modern design. Everything we curate is handcrafted and produced in partnership with our network of world-class artisans—real people making products that bring meaning and connection to your home.

At Obakki, our artisan partners are part of our extensive global family. We’re in touch on a regular basis and their quality of life—and ability to sustain themselves and their communities—will always be our top priority as a company. Their happiness, health, and financial independence all matter to us. By respecting the creativity and technique of every artisan, Obakki helps to give communities a stronger sense of cultural independence and pride

4) Made Trade

We believe we can make the world a more beautiful place by holding ourselves to a higher ethical standard. We call it being “ethically elevated.” It means we put artistry above efficiency. Fair wages above profits. Sustainability above mass production. Quality craftsmanship above mindless consumption. And transparency above everything, as we painstakingly hand-select only the most beautifully-designed, ethically-made goods that put people and our planet first.

And because there’s nothing uglier than unfairness, hidden practices or trickery, we pledge to provide true transparency about the ethically made goods we offer. So you can shop freely, knowing each piece has been responsibly sourced, and expertly handcrafted with sustainable materials. And that the makers and artisans were paid fair wages.

It’s a lofty vision we hope to achieve. But together we can realize it one beautiful, ethical piece at a time.

5) Ten Thousand Villages

We’re a global maker-to-market movement that addresses economic injustice. Because every handcrafted object has a life of meaning behind it. We’re a way for you to shop with intention for ethically-sourced handcrafted wares - and to share in the joy of empowering makers in ten thousand villages.

As a pioneer of fair trade, we do business differently, putting people and planet first. That means you can trust that every purchase and donation you make directly impacts the life and community of its maker in a developing country. Together we break the cycle of generational poverty and ignite social change. #LiveLifeFair

6) The Citizenry

We believe our homes should be reflections of the journeys we take. Our personal spaces deserve designs with a soul, a story, and a purpose. It's why we travel the world to develop our exclusive collections of home goods. Country by country, we partner with master artisans, blending our modern style with their time-tested techniques.

By personally traveling to each country and using only local materials, we establish sustainable relationships with our artisans. From there, we sell directly to you online–there is no middleman. This is how we’re able to offer handmade goods, crafted with the highest quality materials, at more reasonable prices than traditional luxury boutiques.

So, if you're ready to join the eco-chic movement, check out some of the stars of sustainable home decor. It's not just about making your home beautiful; it's about making it a beacon of health and sustainability. Let's champion a style that's as good for us as it is for Mother Earth! 🌿✨