How Americans Can Go Green
There are many ways for Americans to lessen their carbon footprint. While turning off lights and not wasting anything was important to parents and grandparents who lived through the Great Depression, living more gently on the earth has become important to younger generations. While some methods of going green may cost money initially, the benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Save energy. This can be done in numerous ways, such as setting your thermostat lower--especially at night--sealing air leaks around windows and doors, avoiding air conditioning use unless absolutely necessary, drying clothes outside instead of in a dryer, washing clothing in cold instead of hot water and switching from older incandescent light bulbs to the more expensive but longer lasting compact fluorescent bulbs.
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Use less gas. Run all your errands in one or two weekly sessions, rather than several each day. Have a route and itinerary that saves you from doubling back. Use a reel lawnmower that also gives you an exercise workout. You can also shop locally, walk or bike when you can, and take vacations in your hometown area.
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Conserve water by taking showers instead of baths, switching to low-flow showerheads or taking shorter showers. When replacing older washers, dishwashers and toilets, look for models that use less water. Don't water the lawn unless it's absolutely necessary to keep it from dying.
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Recycle whenever possible. While glass, newspaper and cans are the obvious choices, you may be able to find a place that allows you to recycle styrofoam. Additionally, recycle clothing by donating your castoffs to thrift stores and charities. Shop at thrift stores or hold a clothes-swapping party with friends, rather than buying something new.
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Change your eating habits. Grow a garden or purchase produce from local growers that isn't trucked in. Enjoy one vegetarian meal a week, which saves on environmental costs for raising animals. If you are in the country and have space, consider having your own chickens, cows, pigs or goats to provide eggs, meat and dairy products. Don't purchase bottled water; instead, buy a reusable bottle and drink your own tap or filtered water.
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Borrow instead of buying, which lowers consumer demands. Form a neighborhood co-op for the purchase, maintenance and scheduled use of large-ticket items, such as snow blowers, power washers, riding mowers, garden tillers or even augers that you only use occasionally. Some companies also offer rental options for these types of items if you can't borrow one from a friend, neighbor or family member.
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Tips & Warnings
Driving less saves money on gas and wear and tear on the vehicle.
If your community does not offer recycling with garbage pick-up, lobby your local leadership or waste management company to look into offering this.
