Everybody wants to be greener today, but many people are under the mistaken impression that it is inconvenient or expensive to go green. In this article, we will discuss some quick and easy everyday ways that you can go green! Read on to learn more.
It just takes one green-minded consumer to change a light bulb and save 75 percent on energy consumption and cost. New LED and CFL light bulbs burn cooler and use less energy than old-fashioned incandescent bulbs. Using less energy means creating less pollution. They cost a bit more than old-fashioned bulbs, but they last a lot longer, so you end up saving money on your purchase price in the long run, too.
Look for the Energy Star Label to save money and energy for the life of the appliance. These days, it’s almost impossible to find a new appliance that does not have the Energy Star Label, so any time you replace an old appliance or electronic item with a new one, you are sure to save money and energy naturally. If you generally purchase second-hand appliances to save money, take a long, hard look at energy consumption. You may find that spending more on a new appliance will end up saving you big-time on an ongoing basis.
You can save even more electricity by turning off lights when not in use and setting electronic equipment to low power settings whenever possible. Unplugging electric items when not in use or using a power bar so that you can shut off electricity to them all at once will also save you money and power.
Water is a finite resource. We only have the amount of water on Earth that we began with. Using water wisely every time you use it is a smart way conserve this precious and vital resource while saving money on your water bill. You can take big measures, such as installing low-flow toilets and water saving shower heads. Maintaining your plumbing well by fixing leaks immediately is another great way to save water. Encourage everyone in your household to develop the habit of turning off the water when having it on is unnecessary. For example, you could turn off the water while brushing your teeth, use a bucket and rag to wash your car, fill dishpans to wash dishes rather than washing them with the water running, run your washing machine or dishwasher only when full, and so on. All of these simple steps will save many gallons of water.
Making smart transportation choices is a great way to save energy, reduce pollution and stay in shape. Choose walking, cycling, carpooling or public transportation whenever possible. Keep a list of errands and items and take care of them all in one trip rather than driving your car back and forth to the store and other destinations multiple times a week. These simple steps will save fuel, reduce carbon emissions, save money and help you save time and stay fit.
Keep excess rubbish out of the landfill and make the most of our resources by participating in recycling. Many communities have curbside recycling for paper, plastic, steel, aluminum and cardboard. Most communities have recycling centers where you can deliver these items if curbside pickup is not available. Additionally, you may be able to locate recycling points for cell phones, batteries, printer cartridges, paint, motor oil and more. Identify the recycling options offered by your community and participate fully. You will be amazed at the reduction in the amount of trash you throw out weekly. Be sure to donate any usable items you may have to local charities. Throwing perfectly good, usable items into the landfill to sit until the end of time is unconscionably wasteful.
It’s easy to see that everybody can go green! When you make smart choices in your purchases and your use of water and other resources and take a few extra steps to recycle and reuse, you are being a good steward of our planet. Follow the tips presented here so that the world will be a better place thanks to your existence.