Practical Going Green Tips
If you are looking for simple ideas for going green, look no further. On this page you will find our mega list of going green tips.
Don't let yourself get overwhelmed.
Pick one green tip per day, week or month.
Whatever works best for you!
Recycle
Recycle plastic bottles, glass and aluminum. You can also recycle random things hanging around the house like CD's, packing peanuts and ink cartridges. Learn what the recycle symbols mean and see our full list of things to recycle.
Switch to Natural Cleaners
When you run out of solution, replace it with an eco-friendly version. If you are like me and have a hard time spending five dollars on a bottle of cleaner, save money by making your own homemade cleaners.
Wash in Cold Water
When possible, wash full loads of laundry in cold water. An estimated 80% of energy used in the wash cycle is for heating the water.
Line Dry
Skip the dryer and line dry when possible. If you do use a dryer, keep your lint filter clean.
Unplug
Unplug small appliances and cell phone chargers when not in use. Turn off energy strips and surge protectors, especially at night.
Turn off the Lights
Turn off lights and electronics when you leave the room.
Carry a Reusable Water Bottle
When possible, use a reusable bottle and fill it with filtered water. The best water bottle is usually made with aluminum.
Recycle plastic bottles that can't be reused.
Carpool
Share a ride when possible and combine errands. It may take some planning at first, but it will save you time and resources in the long run.
Turn off the Car
If you are going to idle for a few minutes, cut the engine. Chat with fellow passengers or check your PDA instead of listening to the radio.
Adjust the Temperature
Set the thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and a few degrees lower in the winter.
Use Energy Saver Light Bulbs
Install energy efficient light bulbs the next time a bulb bites the dust. See our article on CFL and LED bulbs for more information.
Carry Reusable Shopping Bags
Keep a few eco-friendly tote bags in your vehicle for last minute stops.
Plant a Garden
Become one of the many people enjoying eco-friendly gardens in their backyard. You'll save some money and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Exercise Outdoors
Skip the gym on nice days and head outside. It takes a lot of energy to cool a gym. Most equipment also requires electricity.
Pay Bills Online
Save a stamp, a check, ink and all the other resources necessary to pay a bill via the mail.
Read the Paper Online
This is tough for some. We've cancelled the daily, but I just can't give up my Sunday delivery. If you do get the paper, recycle it.
Install Energy Efficient Appliances
When the microwave runs it's last rotation, replace it with an eco-friendly version. Appliances with the Energy Star label are best suited for the environment.
Educate
Join the go green movement by educating your family about sustainable living. Visit a local landfill and read about global warming effects.
Visit the Library
Save some dough and borrow from the library instead of buying books and movies. Really, how many times are you going to re-read that favorite mystery novel?
Turn off the Water
When you brush your teeth or take a break from the dishes, don't leave the facet running.
Go With the Low-Flow
Install a low-flow showerhead. They are inexpensive and save water and energy.
Light Soy Candles
Look for vegetable based and petroleum-free wax. An added perk; soy usually burns longer than your traditional candle.
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