We all know that our planet needs our help
¡°Going green¡± means that each individual will contribute in some way to reducing waste and conserving energy. People have started recycling paper, plastic, glass, and plastic grocery bags. Cars are being built that run on both gasoline and electric power. People are using natural resources such as solar power, wind power, and water power; The conception of this vivid green has spread like wildfire. The only problem is that not everyone can afford to make such major lifestyle changes.
- You may not be able to afford a fuel-efficient car or install solar panels, but there are many things people can do that cost little or nothing to put forth an effort to go green. The following are some very simple and inexpensive things you can do to start living green:
- Most grocery stores sell reusable grocery bags. They generally cost less than a dollar and will stand up to many trips to the grocery store. Your investment is minimal, but you will be eliminating the use of plastic bags that are in landfills for many years before degrading. When I shop, I always carry my bags with me. When I get home I hang the bags on the doorknob so I remember to put them in my car the next time I leave the house.
- Hybrid cars save fuel but are expensive to buy. You can save fuel by planning your errands and taking one trip into town instead of three. If you live close enough to the grocery store, you can walk if you're just going to buy a few things. You can carry your items in a backpack. Keep your daily planner handy so you can make appointments on the same day at different times. Driving less saves fuel.
- The biggest difference you can make in going green is conserving energy. Use less electricity. Wash clothes in cold water. Unplug appliances like your TV, stereo, and computer when you're not using them. Buy energy-efficient light bulbs that may cost a little more but last much longer and use less electricity. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light and turn off lamps. Dry clothes outside on a clothesline. There are so many things you can do to conserve energy, and all it takes is just a little effort and a lifestyle change.
- Many household cleaning products can be substituted for items you have in your kitchen, such as vinegar. Vinegar will clean windows, and remove stains from shower doors, it's great to use on waxed floors, and it's great to use in your dishwasher. Vinegar is cheap and natural, it will save you money and help you start living green.
- In the warmer months, more time is spent outside, even after dark. Spend less time watching TV and more time relaxing on the front porch with your family and neighbors. If you can cut just 2 hours a day away from watching TV, you'll save a lot of energy over a year.
It has to start somewhere and it has many places. You have to be dedicated to the cause that is, conserving energy is the biggest part of what our world needs right now. Not be so dependent on fossil fuels and learn to conserve and not lose. If everyone just did one of the things listed above and stick to it, we could see a huge difference in the amount of energy that is saved. Consider how much you would save if you did all of those things. Then multiply that by a million. It only takes people dedicated to the cause to make a difference.
paola:)
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