Historically speaking, bathrooms have been looked at from strictly a functional standpoint. In recent years, however, bathroom design has taken off to include some extravagant ideas – many of which don't always keep the environment – and budgets – top of mind. I feel it is time to bring bathroom projects back down to earth and to consider our environmental footprint throughout the entire bathroom design process. Here are some ways to accomplish this:

1. Low flow or dual-flush toilets

Can you imagine flushing 13 litres of water each time the toilet is used? Many still do. Explore modern models with a six-litre flush or less. Another option is a dual-flush toilet that can reduce the use of extra water when it isn't required.

2. Water-efficient showerhead

Get rid of body sprays and opt for a low-flow or aerated showerhead, the latter using less water by incorporating air into the flow. It is optimal to install a product that uses water more efficiently without reducing its performance. 

3. Motion faucets

Letting the water run as you brush your teeth is quickly becoming a thing of the past. A motion-sensing faucet simply allows water to flow only as needed. Other options include low-flow or aerated faucets.

4. Tankless hot water heaters

Gone are the days of needing to store large volumes of hot water only to continuously heat it. With a tankless hot water heater, the water is heated as needed.  It also takes up considerably less space in one’s mechanical room.

5. LED lighting

Consider switching out your light fixtures or light bulbs for LEDs. The power consumption is considerably less with extremely minimal heat output. All of this means that your lights will last longer, thereby keeping bulbs out of the landfill.

6. Low VOC paint

When it comes to your eco-friendly bathroom, you need a paint product that is bathroom friendly and has low VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs create air pollution, and air pollution specifically in your bathroom is not healthy.

7. Durable materials

Select durable and recycled products and materials, such as flooring, countertops, cabinets, wall tile, plumbing fixtures, lighting and construction materials. The better the quality, the longer it will last. The longer life cycle of the bathroom means that less waste will be placed in the landfill. 

8. Remove the tub

Filling a tub full of water can consume a lot of energy, so consider removing the tub from the bathroom altogether. This option is not for everyone, so ensure you weigh the pros and cons carefully.

9. Single sink

We live in the age of more is better, but do you really need a double vanity that consumes double the water? Consider a single sink and use the extra space as an additional countertop.

10. Donate old fixtures

When you decide it is time to renovate your bathroom and turn it into an environmentally friendly haven, there is still the process of demolishing the existing space. As such, you might want to look into the option of donating or selling the used fixtures and construction material to eliminate a trip to the landfill. 

Designing with the environment in mind can add an extra component in the design process of your bathroom; however, it is a vital piece in ensuring a safe future for our planet.