Simple Ways to Live Eco-Friendly at The Villas at Ashton Square

Living a greener lifestyle in Gainesville doesn’t have to mean big sacrifices or expensive upgrades. With Florida’s warm, humid climate and rich natural surroundings, small, everyday choices can make a meaningful difference for the planet—and your budget.

Whether you're a UF student, a healthcare professional at nearby Shands, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet of southwest Gainesville, these simple tips can help you live more sustainably at The Villas at Ashton Square—where comfort, convenience, and community come together.

1. Keep Cool Without Overworking the A/C

Florida summers can be intense, and air conditioning is essential—but it also accounts for around 12% of household energy usage nationwide (U.S. Energy Information Administration).

At The Villas at Ashton Square, our spacious, well-insulated apartment homes with efficient air conditioning make it easy to stay cool efficiently. Here’s how to take it a step further:

• Block out the heat: Close curtains or blinds during peak sun hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) to reduce indoor temps by up to 20%.

• Use ceiling fans: All Villas at Ashton Square apartments include ceiling fans to help circulate cool air and reduce reliance on A/C.

• Adjust when you're out: Set your thermostat 7–10°F higher when you're away. Use a programmable thermostat to automate savings.

These simple strategies can help you stay comfortable without the high electric bill.

2. Cut Down on Single-Use Plastics

Plastic pollution is a growing environmental concern—more than 8 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans each year (National Geographic). Going zero-waste isn't necessary; just swapping out a few everyday items helps:

• Reusable bags: Bring your own bags to Publix, Butler Plaza, or Trader Joe’s—many stores offer small discounts when you do.

• Refillable bottles: Stay hydrated while walking your dog at Split Rock Conservation Area or running errands by using a reusable water bottle.

• Skip the disposables: Your full kitchen at The Villas makes it easy to use real plates and utensils instead of throwaways.

Alachua County accepts many recyclable plastics—just remember to keep plastic bags out of the recycling bin and return them to store drop-offs instead.

3. Shop Local and Seasonal

Buying local supports small farms and reduces emissions from transporting goods long distances—transportation makes up about 11% of greenhouse gas emissions (EPA).

Luckily, The Villas at Ashton Square is just a short drive to Gainesville’s best local markets:

• Explore farmers markets: Check out the Haile Farmers Market, Alachua County Farmers Market, or the Union Street Farmers Market downtown for local produce and handmade items.

• Go seasonal: Choose fruits and vegetables at their peak—like blueberries in spring or watermelon in summer—for better flavor and less packaging.

• Cut the plastic: Many local vendors use minimal or compostable packaging.

Shopping local helps you eat fresh and lower your environmental impact.

4. Add Life with Low-Maintenance Plants

Houseplants do more than beautify your space—they purify the air and boost mood, too. NASA research shows that plants can naturally filter toxins in your home environment.

• Easy-care picks: Try pothos, peace lilies, or snake plants—they require minimal attention and thrive in Florida's humidity.

• Grow your own herbs: Basil, mint, or rosemary thrive on your patio or by a sunny window—perfect for enhancing meals with fresh ingredients.

• Improve air quality: Plants not only look great but also help clean indoor air, especially in well-sealed homes like those at The Villas.

Adding just a few plants can turn your home into a peaceful green retreat.

5. Save Water—Florida’s Most Valuable Resource

Florida’s freshwater supply is under pressure. Its underground aquifers provide drinking water for 90% of the population (Florida Department of Environmental Protection). At The Villas at Ashton Square, our responsive maintenance team quickly handles leaks, but you can help, too:

• Turn off the tap: Save up to 8 gallons a day by turning off the water while brushing your teeth or washing dishes.

• Wash full loads only: Maximize efficiency by waiting for a full load before running your dishwasher or laundry.

• Report leaks: A leaking faucet can waste up to 20 gallons per day—report any issues to maintenance right away.

Every small habit helps protect Gainesville’s water supply.

6. Embrace Secondhand Shopping and Reuse

Gainesville is a college town full of thrifting opportunities and reuse groups—making it easy to live sustainably while saving money. According to the Florida DEP, more than 20 million tons of waste enter state landfills each year.

• Thrift locally: Visit Sandy’s Savvy Chic, Flashbacks, or the Habitat for Humanity ReStore for stylish furniture, décor, or clothes.

• Join reuse groups: Facebook communities like Gainesville Freecycle and Buy Nothing Gainesville are great for finding gently used items or giving yours a second life.

• Donate responsibly: Skip the landfill and donate what you no longer need.

Buying and giving secondhand supports sustainability while building community.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Sustainable living doesn’t mean going off-grid. It’s about thoughtful, manageable choices that make a difference over time. From reducing energy and water use to supporting local businesses, your small efforts can lead to a greener future.

At The Villas at Ashton Square, we make it easy to live responsibly—with spacious layouts, energy-efficient features, in-unit washer/dryer connections, and a peaceful, pet-friendly setting just minutes from UF, nature trails, and shopping.

Ready to make your move to eco-friendly living? Schedule a tour today or contact us to learn more about life at The Villas at Ashton Square.