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Easy Ways To Go Green

By
Real Estate Agent with Coldwell Banker Schmitt

 

As people become more and more educated about the environment, more and more people are choosing to go green. There is so much to consider when going green, it can be hard to know where to start. Use the simple tips in this article to go green by starting with small steps.

If you have outdoor lights or other electronic lawn items, consider going for solar-powered appliances. It is much cheaper than switching your home's power to solar, but it still makes a big difference, especially if you have a large lighted yard. 

By energy efficient appliances. This doesn't mean you have to replace appliance you have with energy-efficient models, but when you need a new washer or air conditioner, choose an Energy Star model over the others. You will not only be making a difference in your carbon footprint, you will also notice a huge difference in savings in your energy bill. 

Pay attention to your energy consumption. If your house is not powered by a renewable source, like solar power, you can make a difference in the earth's health and your electricity bill by watching your energy consumption. Use energy-efficient lights, and turn them off when the room is not in use. Try cooking more than one dish in the oven at the same time and only wash clothes when you have large loads. Doing little things like this adds up to make a big difference in your energy bills and living a green lifestyle.

Recycle whatever waste you can. This is a very inexpensive way to go green, and you might even get paid for some of your recyclables if you go to the right place. Recycle paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metals to help conserve the earth's resources and reduce waste.  

Reuse items whenever you can. Use fabric grocery bags when you go to the store, and if you forget them and get plastic ones from the store, reuse those before you recycle them. Reuse plastic and glass containers when you can. Another waste and money-saving technique is to re purpose old clothing and make them into pillow cases, tote bags or other things you might need. Use your imagination and think about how you can reuse something before you throw it away. 

Reduce the amount of waste you use. Choose reusable containers instead of plastic bags and disposable containers for leftovers. Only buy products and food in large amounts with minimal packaging to reduce your waste. Avoid using paper products to clean up messes and opt for washcloths instead.

As you have read, you have many options when it comes to making green choices. The three things to remember is to reduce your waste product consumption, reuse items that you can and recycle things that you can't use anymore. Use the helpful tips in the article above to help you keep these things in mind, and start to live a greener life with minimal effort. When you make good decisions regarding the environment, everyone wins.