Simple Ways to go Green
US driving habits contribute to the carbon footpint
It can’t be stressed enough the importance of reducing your carbon foot print, but the task can be daunting and if not undertaken correctly, overwhelming. I want to list some simple things that you can do to reduce that foot print, not break the budget (and even expand it), and relieve levels of stress.
First, let’s talk energy. You don’t need to run out and buy solar panels or wind turbines in order to save energy. There are many simple things that will help reduce the amount of energy that you use. Turn off the lights. It may seem too simple, but it helps. If you aren’t using the light or if you leave the room, flip the switch. If you aren’t pumping electricity to your house then the power plant supplying your electricity isn’t burning as much fossil fuels. Replace your light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They are a little more money, but they last longer and don’t use as much energy. Work with the least amount of light that you need. When you are on a laptop make sure you have it on the energy saving. This will reduce the amount of electricity it uses and will save the battery for longer use. Lastly, replace old appliances with ones that have an energy star rating. This is a little more costly, but you find a significant change in your utilities bills.
Hydroelectric dam in Ghana - photo-G. Meyers
What about water? What can you do to save water? Rain collection is a great way to reduce the amount of water you may use in watering your garden. More efficient dishwashers and washing machines also help. Washing your clothes in cold water rather than hot is just as affective and saves water. Don’t spend too much time in the shower. That will help a lot with saving water. Just be conscious of the amount of water you use.
Food and health are very important in going green, but this always seems to be the most expensive thing to do. Shopping at Safeway is one of the best ways to do this. I have found that the majority of organic products offered there are cheaper than the competing brands. Another great thing to do is buy fruit and vegetables that are in season. This will give you the cheapest price for you quality and quantity. Lastly, shop your farmer’s market. This will give you home grown, organic produce that gives you the assurance of the greenest veggies and fruits (unless you were to grow them yourself).
Transportation is a key in going green. You can get a more fuel efficient vehicle but you are still burning gas and releasing it into the environment. There are healthier and cheaper solutions. If you are close enough, ride your bike to work and places you are going. You will stay in shape and help the problem of pollution. Public transportation is also a good way to help the environment, but the buses still emit pollution. Walking and bicycling are some of the healthiest forms of transportation for yourself as well as the environment.
These are just some very simple, very cheap things for you to do to go green. You don’t have to be an eco guru to make a difference on the environment and just because you care about the planet you live on doesn’t make you some sort of crazy tree hugger, it just makes you intelligent. Simple life style changes can really make a difference.