You've heard many times before that Americans are the largest consumers of the earth's resources with only a fraction of the world's population. And you can certainly see the effects of global warming on our weather patterns. So you don't need to be convinced that there is a growing problem, and unless it's addressed, we are heading for disaster.
The Problem
There are many corporations and people pronouncing that they are going green, perhaps you are one. However, if you are in the majority, you've probably dismissed everyone's attempts to get you to go green. This is the real problem: Many people believe that they have to go "all the way" to be green: drive a hybrid, use solar panels, and be vegetarian. But, there are many "shades" of green.
The Solution
You can start making some minor changes today that will generate an impact on your carbon footprint. First, I recommend taking a carbon footprint test, as on sites like ECO Foot or Carbon Footprint, to get a baseline of your consumption. As you take the test, notice your responses and where you have the highest resistance to change. For some, it might be major investments such as investing in solar or alternative energy. For others, it might be using public transportation. Also, and more importantly, notice where you have the least resistance, for these are indicators where you can start.
Lowest Hanging Fruit
Start making small changes that have the least impact on your lifestyle.
- Recycling - If you’re not already participating in your community’s recycling program, find out what is acceptable and pick up containers from your town’s recycling facility. Just google your town's website and you'll find the information there.
- Energy Use - Purchase a few multi-outlet strips for your electronics (computers, televisions, cable box, etc). Before going to bed at night, turn off the power button on the power strips. Even when the appliances are turned off they are still pulling in power. By turning the strips off, it stops the flow of power to your electronics. Also, while you are up at night, only turn on lights in rooms you are currently in.
- Water Conservation - Use water judiciously. Run dishwashers when they are full and rather than hand-washing dishes, which consumes more water. Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth. If you are replacing a toilet, purchase a dual-flush one that limits the amount of water used.
- Reducing Waste - If you have a choice, opt for products with limited packaging. Use household items for their full lifecycle. If you want to purchase energy-efficient models, sell or give away your old useful appliances rather than sending them to the dump.
- Buying responsibly - If you can stop your addiction to plastic water bottles or disposable coffee cups, then you'll be saving a lot of trash that doesn't decompose. Buy items that are organic or made from recycled products, are fair trade, or sustainably-produced. Purchase from companies that have a established green, sustainable policy.
There are many other ways that you can make a difference. Don't forget to go back and update your carbon footprint to see how far you've come. Remember, it just takes a few steps to head in the right direction!
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