Spring is here, and everything's turning green again. Now is the perfect time to go green yourself by taking steps to live more sustainably and reduce your impact on the environment. Here are a few simple tips to help you get started.
Reduce, reuse, recycle
If you just throw something away, it's not only wasteful, but it will probably end up in a landfill where it will contribute to a host of environmental problems. Learn how you can reduce, reuse and recycle materials to decrease household waste. Don't stop at your doorstep. Get involved in community recycling programs and be a green consumer. Select products and packaging made from recycled and recyclable materials.
Save energy
Saving energy is one of the best ways to reduce your household's environmental footprint. Simple conservation strategies can yield big savings. Turn off lights and home electronics when they're not in use. Adjust your thermostat at night or when you're not at home. Switch to high-efficiency, long-lasting LED light bulbs. See Save Energy at Home from ENERGY STAR® for more ideas.
Eat local and organic
Organic foods are produced using sustainable practices, and local foods reduce transportation and storage, which also has an impact on the environment. Look for organic food at your grocery or food cooperative and visit your local farmers market. The organization Local Harvest and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farmers Market Directory are useful resources.
Use water wisely
Fresh, clean water is not an infinite resource. Take shorter showers and only run the dishwasher or washing machine when you have a full load. Fix leaks as quickly as possible. Consider installing faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads. Use water-efficient irrigation practices for your lawn and garden. See Start Saving from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for more ideas on how you can conserve water.
Green on a budget
Think that sustainable living is not financially sustainable? Think again. Although some items — such as organic produce — may cost more, many sustainable practices have little or no cost and may even save you money. So, going green will not necessarily leave you in the red.