We are going GREEN!

My wife and have a 19month old daughter that we absolutely adore.  We have thought long and hard about the best (and affordable) ways to do our part to ensure that our world is safe for future generations.  Here is the list we came up with.  Feel free to add to it, we are always trying to think of new ways!

~Went to IKEA and replaced lights with energy efficient ones.

~Recycle as much as possible -- from cans, to junk mail to carboard toilet paper rings

~Reuse -- Both my wife and I have a Nalgene bottle we use around the house for water so not to dirty more dishes

~We no longer buy bottled water.  We have a Culligan service and if on the road will grab a 1 gallon jug of water and fill our Nalgene's -- look at the cost difference, you can get a gallon of water for cents more than a 20oz. bottle.

~We turn the heat down to 55 degrees everyday when we leave for work

~In the summer we open windows and when possible use blankets in the winter (a little hard with the little one though, want to make sure she is warm!)

~One by one (as money permits) we are replacing the old appliances with energy efficient ones

~Replaced shower head with a low-flow and got more water pressure!  Love it!

~My wife uses a 50/50 white vinegar/water for cleaning - believe it or not, it cleans better than anything we have used, is cheaper and 100% non-toxic!

~ We walk to the grocery store on the weekends and use reusable bags which our store gives 3cents discount per bag. 

~We hit up the farmers market as much as possible in the summer

~Unplug unused appliances such as toaster, mixer, cellphone chargers etc.

~I got a great deal on an cordless electric lawn mower at a garage sale

~Use rechargable batteries

~Don't use drive thru's anymore.  Actually get out of the car and walk in!  Novel idea!

~Registered @ dmaconsumers.org to get off of junk mailing lists

What ideas are you using to help the world for future generations!  I am always up for new ideas!  Thank you!