Get Passionate about Going Green

It’s difficult always to remember to be green, but every little effort to reduce your carbon footprint really does make a difference. When you feel overwhelmed that going green is too much of a hassle, keep in mind that there are tons of easy ways to help the environment – like the following fun and simple approaches that will fit comfortably into your daily routine while helping out the planet.

• Reduce your plastic consumption – Get reusable, eco-friendly water bottles instead of a case of 24, and reuse a gallon container along with tap or spring water for easy refills.
   
• Make it easy to recycle – Have designated bins in easily accessible areas of your home, such as right next to your garbage can.
   
• Encourage friends and family to reduce their carbon footprints – Remind others to follow your lead and recycle, reuse, and reduce energy consumption.
   
• Stay educated – Visit eco-friendly restaurants, shops, and buildings for a fun way to explore your city and learn about green innovations. Research green technologies, products, and legislature by clicking on the environmental section of your favorite news web site.
   
• Make your free time count – Fix faucet and pipe leaks around the house to conserve water, replace your light bulbs with compact fluorescent ones, garden as often as possible, and experiment with composting.
   
• Paper or plastic? Neither! – Purchase reusable eco-friendly bags from grocery stores, and remember to keep them in your car or right next to your doorway so you don’t forget them on your way out.
   
• Purchase local and organic food – You’ll feel good about what you consume knowing it didn’t contribute to excess carbon emissions by traveling across the country. You also benefit from eating foods that are free of pesticides or hormones.
   
• When cleaning out your house, be sure to donate what you can to organizations like Salvation Army or Good Will so others can reuse them. Donate books and magazines to libraries. Give your old electronics to others to reuse as well.