The Best Eco-Friendly Patio Essentials You Need For Fall

Avoiding plastic, especially in planters, is one of the best ways to create a more eco-friendly outdoor space. We like metal planters since they’re durable, keep their appearance, and can withstand rain, wind, and autumn’s inevitable cold snaps. Ceramic planters are another excellent choice, but it’s essential to move them indoors once temperatures drop. And, of course, you can always use recycled wood to create a custom planter box.

Two-Piece Planter Set, Wayfair, $360.

Keeping up with the coastal aesthetic, adding a neutral-toned deep mahogany and eucalyptus wood loveseat would be the perfect addition to your setup. Eucalyptus wood is often hailed as one of the more ‘sustainable’ options when it comes to wood manufacturing, something to look out for when you’re reviewing materials on outdoor furniture. Add additional seating with an accent chair made from eucalyptus wood for a touch of natural texture to your patio setup.

Portside Outdoor Loveseat, West Elm, $2100.

One of the great things about linen is its durability. If taken care of well, linen can last years and only improves when continuously washed. Producing linen consumes less water than cotton, making it more sustainable. Linen is an excellent alternative for a throw blanket as it’s a great insulator for warm and cool temperatures. And for those cozy nights napping on the patio, luxurious linen pillows are a perfect addition to an outdoor snooze.

Freya Linen Blanket, Cultiver, $232.

Outdoor rugs don’t have to be flashy. They also don’t have to look and feel like an itchy “welcome mat,” either. Adding a durable and mould-resistant rug reduces water usage since you won’t need to wash it as much, and it’ll last you for years to come.

Stripe Black Rug, Ruggable, $309.

When looking for ways to illuminate your patio, opt for LED. They have the same power and as any conventional light with half the electricity consumption. You can also opt for HID bulbs, however those are less common to find via retail outlets.

LED Glowing Ball, Amazon, $75.

Integrating fibreglass with concrete can create a long-lasting weatherized piece that can withstand cold nights and hot days. Fibreglass is made of sand, making this material a more sustainable choice.

Ceramic Side Table, West Elm, $215.

If you want an eco-friendly outdoor backyard, avoid adding electric fire pits. They’re typically made with cheap plastics and run on electricity, making them unsustainable. A solid concrete fire pit, with either natural gas or wood burning, is a better option for your sustainable oasis.

Concrete Outdoor Fire Pit Table, Wayfair, $2,475.

You’ll never regret investing in high-quality eco-friendly outdoor furniture, especially if it’s from a reputable Canadian furniture brand. For a greener home, look for sustainable patio furniture made of 100 percent recyclable material or head to your local thrift store to give another piece new life. 

Typically manufacturers will denote in the “details” section of the purchasing page whether the materials are sustainably sourced and managed. Take the extra step to read product descriptions of furniture pieces you want to buy. See if it’s Greenguard certified, which means a product that has met industry standards for low emissions, or if it’s Oeko-Tex certified, which confirms non-hazardous chemicals have been used in textiles. This chic outdoor lounge chair from Sunday Furniture checks off all of the above!

Outdoor Lounge 2-Seater,Sundays, $1470.

We all know that the beautifully coloured leaves on the trees can be short-lived. For this reason, we always love adding a fall-blooming perennial such as chrysanthemums into our outdoor spaces. They add a touch of vibrancy to an otherwise cold backdrop for fall decor. As you may know, perennial plants are more eco-friendly for gardens because they are self-sustainable and regrow in a specific year for more than two years.

Minimizing food waste and composting are one of the easiest ways you can help the planet from reduced greenhouse gas emissions. If you still want to continue using your grill and dining al fresco well into the fall, try to add a compost bin to your outdoor kitchen area. Check out our top ten countertop compost bins.

Lomi Compost Bin, Pela, $499.