How Freelancers, Entrepreneurs, and the Self-Employed Are Saving the Environment

Amanda Abella
According to The Money Book for Freelancers, Part-Times, and the Self-Employed, about 30% of Americans have joined the independent workforce; that means they are self-employed, freelancers, perma-lancers, entrepreneurs, and so on. Many choose to work like this because the thrill of being our own boss beats a cubicle any day. Others find themselves with no other choice because they have been hit by this frustrating economy. Regardless of the situation, the independent workforce has reason to rejoice: they have some of the most eco-friendly jobs around.

Most of us independent workers work from home, which cuts our contribution to pollution and fuel use. In stark contrast, employees usually need a car to get to and from work. Office workers also have little control over how other employees use resources, which office equipment to buy, or what waste management methods are used.

Freelancers and the self-employed, however, have more control over their work environment. Below you will a list of ways how the independent workforce can further help the planet.

Use Laptops Instead of Desktops

By general rule, laptops tend to use much less energy than desktops. You can find laptops at a great price for TigerDirect.com.

Granola CPU Scaler

If you want to lower your computer energy even more, check out the Granola CPU scaler. Your computer may be able to run a bunch of fancy programs, but most of the time you probably just need it to check your email. During such times the Granola system utility scales back the energy usage of your CPU, saving you energy and money. You can find out more about Granola by visiting their website.

Set up a Green Home Office

Check out How to be Green in the Office for ways on how you can make your work environment eco-friendly.

Green Your Transportation

Sometimes you may have to run out to meet a client of get some supplies. Instead of using a car, try using public transportation or riding a bike to wherever you need to go.

For more green living tips visit Ecobellus.com.

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Go Green: Start Working From Home

Published by Amanda Abella

A freelance writer since 2009, Amanda Abella has had work published on Yahoo News, eHow, Miami Examiner, Environmental Graffiti, The Smart College Grad, and Handmade News. She also runs a Gen Y personal deve...  View profile

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