Simple Ways to Go Green: Easy Steps to Becoming Eco-Friendly

Some people are passionate about the environment and green living. As a result, they spend considerable time discovering new ways to protect the planet and be more environmentally responsible. Although I'm not one that has that kind of passion and drive, I do want to be a responsible citizen and contribute to a more green, safe and healthy environment. To do this, I've made some simple changes in my daily life. Anyone can adopt these practices and thus contribute to improving the eco-system.

Conserving Energy

• Use sunlight in lieu of electrical lighting by opening curtains and blinds during the day. This practice can also aid in heating a room during the winter months.
• Help to conserve energy by switching to more eco-friendly light bulbs. Not only will this aid in conserving energy, over time it can help in lowering one's energy bill.
• Walk, bicycle or take public transportation whenever possible. In addition to conserving energy, these practices will also help to reduce air pollution.
• Improve home insulation. With improved insulation one can turn down the heat during the winter and minimize the need for air conditioning in the summer.
• Make it a practice to turn off lights and appliances when not in use.

Recycling

• Recycle household items like paper, cardboard and plastics. Other recyclable items include batteries, aluminum cans, glass and foil.
• Recycle clothing creatively by reusing materials to cover pillows or utilize them as rags. One can also sell clothing at a garage sale or consignment shop, or donate them to a charity such as Goodwill.
• Recycle old appliances by reselling or donating to charity. Additionally, technology such as laptops, digital cameras, cell phones and printers can also be recycled. Check with your local recycling center or office supply store (as they oftentimes have days when these items can be dropped off for recycling).
• Minimize use of paper products such as paper plates, cups and napkins.

Earth (Eco) Friendly Products

• Replace chemical cleaners with more environmentally friendly ones. Whenever possible, use household items like lemon juice, baking soda or vinegar for cleaning, shampooing hair, etc.
• Various products on the market now are made from recycled material. Support these efforts by buying some of these products. Some of these items include office supplies (i.e. paper, ink cartridges, file folders and envelopes), clothing (including purses, backpacks and shoes) and home improvement products (like carpet and furniture).

Other easy ways to become green include planting a small garden or buying produce from local growers, composting and buying in bulk (less packaging).