These days it seems like everyone is finding new and interesting ways to "go green". Stores have gotten rid of plastic bags and also offer electronic receipts. Many workplaces have gone virtually paper-free and have done away with break room disposables. Even restaurants have gotten into the act by banning plastic straws and installing recycle bins. With all this going on, do you really need to do anything more? The answer is yes, and here are six reasons why it's not too late to get into an eco-friendly state-of-mind.

Slow Global Warming

Climate change is the result of occurrences like volcanos, weather patterns, the sun's output and of course, human interference. This global warming is made worse by burning fossil fuels and deforestation. These man-made causes are the ones everyone can work to change. Help slow global warming by using public transportation, walking more and owning a fuel-efficient automobile. Turn off electronics and lights when not in use. Insulate your home and you'll use less energy to heat or cool it.

Save Money on Your Energy Bill

If there's one thing everyone enjoys, it's saving money and going green allows you to do that. Start out small by changing your light bulbs to LEDs. While they cost more upfront, these bulbs last for years and use less electricity. Harness the strength of the sun by investing in a sustainable solar power system and you'll lower your bill forever. Solar systems allow you to choose how you use your energy and take care of the Earth at the same time.

Protect the Future of Your Community

Saying you care about the future and actually doing something about it are two different things. Make good on your concern for generations to come by planting trees around your home and finding groups to plant more throughout your city. Another project to get involved with is creating a community garden. It's a terrific way to put your gardening skills to use for the greater good. You can also take part in city-wide clean-ups and recycling projects.

Improve Your Health

How can becoming environmentally-friendly improve your health? To start, when you carpool or bike, you reduce harmful pollutants. Plus, the extra exercise is good for your body. Buying organic food from farmer's markets means no more pesticides. You can also make your own cleaning products and avoid noxious chemicals. All of these activities will make you feel better physically and emotionally. When you're doing things that benefit everyone, you're bound to feel wonderful!

Support Local Business

Another way to go green is to support your local businesses. First, you'll save gas by not traveling hours to a large shopping center. You'll also help friends and neighbors that work in town by keeping food on their table, and tax dollars supporting your community. If you must shop with larger chain stores, make sure you do business with ones that are environmentally-responsible and keep trips to a minimum or order online.

Spend Less Time on the Road

When eco-friendly plans include doing less driving, you'll reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For those that drive everyday, consider buying a hybrid vehicle. Use cruise control if you do a lot of highway driving. Also, avoid flooring the pedal, as it uses more fuel. Combine your errands so you're not all over the place and try to use air-conditioning only when you really need it. Less time on the road means more time spent on truly meaningful activities.