I believe it's been embedded in our heads that living a green life is challenging, time consuming, and expensive. Here are several minor updates you can incorporate into your everyday living, leading you to a greener lifestyle. I've included facts to go along with several of the topics.
1. Laundry/Dishes- Only wash dishes and laundry when you have a full load, and use earth-friendly cleaning products
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/02/how-to-go-green-laundry.php#tips
2. Household Cleaning - Make your own cleaning products or buy products that are safe for the environment and your home. Most people are surprised at how affordable these products are. Many are comparable to those packed with chemicals and toxins.
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/01/how-to-go-green-cleaning.php#tips
3. Natural Skin, Hair, and Body- Try homemmade products, or shop smart and choose products that are safe and good for your body. If you think of how many chemicals you are exposed to daily just by walking outside, eliminate additional toxins by making the switch to chemical-free products in your home. Consider the many products you use daily that may consist of harmful contents. Check the labels on your makeup, toothpaste, deodorant, shower gel, body lotion, and hair products.
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/02/how-to-go-green-natural-skin-care.php
4. Save Carbon by Driving Less and Slower- Complete all your errands in the same neighborhood if possible, and avoid meaningless trips. Put the car windows down and enjoy a natural breeze sometimes, versus turning the AC on. Get the most out of your fuel by driving slower, around 55 to 60 miles per hour which is when the car gets its best fuel efficiency. This of course results in fewer vists to the gas pump.
5. Recycle and Reuse 'Stuff': Donate your gently used items to someone that needs/wants them. Also, if you haven't done so already, check out secondhand, resale, and vintage shops for cool items you can put to great use, and for cheap. Consider furniture, household accessories, electronics, and of course apparel.
6. Styrofoam and Plastic Addictions- I know it's common and routine to purchase paper plates, plastic utensils, and cups for the summer barbecue party or office luncheon. Well, somewhere along that line, we decided to start using these items as daily household necessities. I'm sure it may save you from having to wash dishes, but the consequences of this decision is more costly. You are simply adding more waste to the environment, daily, plus spending a significant amount of money replenishimg these goods. Eliminate or reduce the use of papertowels, 'throwaway' dishes, and eating utensil in your home.
***Bonus: Purchase a water bottle and a coffee cup for daily drinks on the go. Also, get rid of the sandwich bags for the kiddies lunch, and buy containers instead.
Let me know what you're doing to protect your environment or changes you plan to make regarding your home and environment. Comment here, through Facebook, or Twitter.
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