Without even trying, you’ll surprise yourself with the green things you are already doing. For instance, do you have a smart phone? Instead of buying a camera, a phone, a GPS, a tablet computer, a music player, and even a pedometer, your Smartphone is all of those things. With a Smartphone you only have to buy one device, eliminating the manufacturing waste and e-waste disposal for several different devices. With all the apps you can now download, your phone can do just about anything you want it to! And, if you charge your phone with a solar charger, which are getting better all the time, you will really be going green with your phone!
If you have switched your light bulbs to energy-efficient CFLs, you are probably seeing considerable savings on your electric bill. If you have added extra insulation to your home, you have probably noticed a drop in your heating bill. This is a form of “green investing” – the return is immediate and probably greater than investing in a utility company. Of course I’m also all for investing in companies that are doing the right thing for the earth and people, or socially responsible investing, but start your green investing at home first. (Check out slowmoney.org for investment opportunities within 50 miles where you live that aim to fix the economy from the ground up starting with food entrepreneurs.)
Do you realize the houseplants you decorate your house with not only give off oxygen and filter carbon dioxide, but some plants also actually absorb indoor toxins? Houseplants are nature’s air purifier. Click here for a list of the plants that best absorb toxins.
Every time you take the stairs instead of an elevator or an escalator, every time you air dry your clothes or turn off the lights when you leave a room, you conserve energy. When you turn the water off brushing your teeth or run the dishwasher only when full, you save water.
These simple acts all make a difference. Keep going – add new “green” things daily to your life.
Some information compiled from Green Living, editors of The Environmental Magazine and green.life@sierraclub.org.
