Green Thoughts, Greener Earth

Going green sometimes can be very expensive. Not many of us can afford to build a new home even if we only want recyclable and reusable products to preserve the earth. That is not to say that we shouldn't do what we can to make our world a better place. Whatever we do, such as recycling newspaper, cans, plastic bottles, and bags will go toward a greener earth.

There are many little things we can do to go green that will make a big impact. Below are some earth-friendly ideas to consider.

1. Buying a new area rug? Look for natural fiber of sisal, or sea grass, or cotton.

2. Buying new beddings? Look for linens made of certified organic cotton. Organic cotton linens, grows without synthetic pesticides, untreated chemical sprays, and sustainable bamboo blends are best.

3. Buying foods? If your budget allowed, buy organic foods. Wal-Mart now offers some organic foods for a lower price than supermarkets.

4. Buying candles? Use nonpetroleum candles with cloth wicks. Some candles contain chemically derived fragrances. Choose those scented with essential oils only.

5. Remodeling your home? Use natural wood or recycling materials that isn't chemically treated.

6. Buying paint? Choose zero-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints to help indoor toxic to a minimum.

7. Buying cleaning products? Choose cleaners from vegetable and plants ingredients that are chlorine and phosphate free spray rather than petroleum.

8. Kitchen wares-Glass takes about one million years to biodegrade. Look for objects made from recycle bottles and jars.

9. Bath towels---Choose woven sustainable wood fibers create a super-absorbent towel that feels like cashmere.

10. Furniture---Select pieces that made from sustainable and renewable materials such as bamboo, since bamboo grows up to two feet per day.

11. Buying water bottles? Why not buy a water purifier for your home, and save the earth. Not only you will save money in the long run, it is also reduces the pollution the bottles create.

12. Other ideas for cleaning supplies? You can substitute most of these cleaning chemicals with vinegar, baking soda, bleach, rubbing alcohol, and many other natural agents that you already have in your house.

These are just little things that we can do around our home. We don't need and can't afford to replace everything at once. Just keep in mind these twelve suggestions when you are shopping for new things. Little changes make a big different when they are all adding up.

There are many other small things we can do, such as conserving energy, plant a tree on earth's day, make a compost pile, recycling and reusing whatever we can. "Going green" is the two words that you hear most often now a day.