Going Green is Easier Than You Think

“Going Green” is a term more and more of us are becoming aware of. You see it on magazine covers in the supermarket checkout line. You see it in newspapers and on the internet. You hear about it on television. It has become the "fad" of the early 2000's. A fad that unlike big hair, avocado green appliances and acid dyed jeans, will hopefully become a permanent way of life for not just the United States, but for the entire world. Unlike previous fads, this one is actually good for the environment, and the planet as a whole.

You see, practically everything we humans do has some sort of impact on the environment. Even something as seemingly benign as a pack of chewing gum can have adverse effects. Is the cardboard package made of recycled paper? What will become of the plastic that houses the individual pieces of gum when I am through with it? Will it just add to the mountains of plastic and other garbage filling up land fills? Okay, that may be a bit deep. But it does make one think about how something that seems so insignificant, when multiplied by millions, can become a problem. Fortunately there are three easy steps we all can take to ensure that "going green" does in fact become a permanent lifestyle change and not just a passing fad.

Recycle! Another word we've all been hearing a lot of for a very long time. But one of the easiest things you personally can do to ease the burden on the planet. The only things you should be throwing in that kitchen trash can are food scraps and plastic packaging. Having separate bins for cans, plastic bottles, glass bottles and even cardboard packaging, is easy and affordable. Most municipalities now have curbside recycling programs. And those that don’t usually provide access to free recycling centers that you can take those recycled items to. Try it for a month. You will probably be amazed at how much longer it will take you to fill up that kitchen trash can. Okay, so now you’re recycling and well on your way to "going green". You have greatly reduced the amount of refuse you send to the landfill each week. Now what?

Well the second step you can take is replacing those toxic cleaning products under the kitchen sink with "green" ones. For general, all purpose cleaning, vinegar, baking soda and essential oils can work wonders. There are many great books and websites that contain recipes for making powerful, non-toxic cleaners; cleaners which are easy on the environment, your health and your pocketbook.

The third step is switch to appliances that consume less energy to operate. Neon and LED lights make a great alternative to normal lighting in that they use less energy to operate with than standard incandescent bulbs. They also look great for advertising your store. So basically you can increase your business while helping the environment. Aside from the lights, also look into other energy saving devices; such as televisions, washing machines, and ovens that use less energy to help your house leave a smaller carbon footprint.

So there you have it. Three easy and inexpensive ways in which you can help ensure that "going green" becomes more than just a fad. Making it a way of life will help improve the quality of life for this and future generations. Good luck on your quest to "Go Green"!