Easy Ways to Go Green

Getting greener is all about integrating a bunch of changes, both large, and small, into your daily lifestyle. Here are some eco-minded things that I do now automatically without really thinking about it:

• bring reusable bags to all markets and stores
• unplug toaster, coffee maker, stereo, tv, etc from the wall when not in use
• use Pyrex, glass and biodegradable plastic containers to store food in fridge and cabinets rather than use plastic zip locks
• avoid using PET plastic bottles, takeout containers, and plastic storage bags of all sizes
• use biodegradable trash can liners
• recycle all paper, plastic and glass
• compost when in the burbs
• scrape rather than rinse dishes before loading in the dishwasher
• run the dishwasher only when it’s full
• open the dishwasher door half-way through the dry cycle to air dry
• eat raw food meal once a day — salad, fresh veggies and fruits, (saving energy) and less meat in general
• buy organic and /or local food
• grow potted herbs and tomatoes
• open the blinds during the day, close ‘em after sunset
• switch to CFL’s when the incandescents need replacing
• use power saving surge protectors
• shut-down standby electronics
• installed low flow shower-heads with filters
• use cloth napkins most of the time
• use cloth dish towels (rather than paper towels) most of the time
• use napkins and paper towels that are from recycled material (when not using cloth)
• use toilet and tissue paper made from recycled material
• walk to destinations whenever possible
• drive less, make multi-purpose trips in car; drive using gas-saving tips
• donate used clothes to church or charity
• use biodegradable laundry detergent and dish washing liquid
• use natural cleaning methods or nontoxic, biodegradable, off the shelf supplies
• use healthy, organic-based skincare, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste and makeup
• buy clothes from thrift shops or new goods made from bamboo, hemp, soy and organic cotton
• buy Fair Trade made and items from organic, recycled or renewable materials
• treasure hunt at tag sales, flea markets, consignment shops, town dumps
• pass-along used clothes and household items to friends and family
• pay most bills online
• eliminated catalogs and junk mail
• write on both sides of paper
• take “shorter” showers
• conserve water in general
• use the washing machine with full loads and line dry most of my laundry
• hand wash my car rather than go to a car wash
• bought energy star appliances (refrigerator, dishwasher and clothes dryer)
• continue to apply: Reduce, Re-use, Recycle, Re-purpose approach to everyday living

Next steps include:

• install an under the sink water filtration system
• trap rainwater

Feel free to jump-in with tips and suggestions on how you’re conserving and preserving…