Going “Green” One Step at a Time

Caring for our environment is becoming an increasingly urgent matter. The time is now to take action. It is easy to think that you are only one person and what you do doesn't really matter in the big scheme of things, but if we all take little steps to  reduce our energy consumption and support better farming practices, we can begin to create real change.

I have friends who live as earth-friendly a life as is possible for living in a city. They ride bikes everywhere (with their two children in tow!). They heat their home with firewood and grow their own food in the back yard. Their efforts are truly admirable.

This is not me. I do try to do what I can to help the environment, however. There are many simple things that can be done:

 

1) Recycle. 

Recycle everything that you can. Try to have more in your recycling bins than your trash barrel.

 

2) Replace your light bulbs with high-efficiency bulbs. They last longer and will reduce your electric bill at the same time.

 

3) Choose organic products whenever you can. This is one that I am trying to implement more and more in my regular shopping, choosing "earth-friendly" cleaning products and food. It is easier than ever as organic products have gone mainstream and many big-box grocery stores now sell them. I have to say the recycled toilet paper was not a hit in my family and I went back to our old brand. Other than that, the changes have been taken in stride. 

 

4) Unplug items you are not using. Turn off your computer and monitor at night. Unplug your cell phone charger.  

 

5) Limit your driving to that which is truly necessary. Plan trips so that you can do your errands most effectively. Carpool or take public transportation if possible.  

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