It’s very simple to start making the effort of “going green”. There are many easy and effortless everyday tasks that you can adjust, and there are also some bigger changes you can make in your household. Whether you are looking for a quick adjustment, or wanting to invest more time and money into the transition, the lists are endless!

–          Instead of using new bags every time at the grocery store, buy reusable bags or even reuse plastics ones from home.

–          Instead of purchasing new magazines, share a subscription with a friend. Also, you can purchase used magazines from your local bookstore.

–          Switch the usage of harsh chemical cleaners to a homemade baking soda and vinegar cleaner. You can also purchase green or organic household cleaners. In a ½ gallon bucket of water, mix ¼ cup of baking soda and a ½ cup of vinegar.

–          Reuse & recycle as much as possible! “Of the 251 million tons of trash, or solid waste, generated in the United States, about 81.8 million tons or 32.5% was either recycled or composted.” (Source: EPA)

–          How to recycle glass: dump out any food residue and rinse lightly. You can leave on paper and plastic labels since they will be burned or blown off in the recycling process. Remove lids and caps!

–          Identify hazardous waste, and make sure you know the proper disposal for these materials. Many automotive materials are classified as hazardous waste: batteries, used oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Many pesticides and household products can classify as hazardous material as well.

–          If you bring your lunch to work or school, always use reusable containers and utensils.

–          To reduce wasted electricity, unplug all your electronics and appliances when they are not in use.

–          Help save more trees and cut down on unwanted junk mail by visiting the website catalogchoice.org

–          When you purchase computer printing paper, make sure to buy 100% post-consumer recycled paper.

–          For your bills, sign up for the “paperless” billing or e-statements to cut down on use of paper.

–          Try to conserve more water: Check your pipes and faucets for leaks, install water conserving showerheads and low-flow faucet aerators, don’t leave the water running the entire time your brush your teeth, use the dishwasher and clothes washing machine for full loads only.

As you can see going green can be simple, help sustain our earth for a better tomorrow!