Simple Ways to Save the Environment

When you read that global warming can only really be combated if government and industry step up, it’s easy to become discouraged; but fortunately, there are many simple ways to save the environment on an individual basis. And, if you spread the word, those actions will begin to have a serious impact.

We all have the ability to heal and preserve the planet.

For most people, the idea of big changes is daunting. As scary as climate change is, the average person or household usually wants to start off taking small steps towards a more earth-friendly lifestyle. Once those changes are integrated, it becomes easier to start making more and bigger changes.

• Light bulbs are an easy switch. Compact fluorescent bulbs last longer and use less energy than incandescent bulbs, so you will save money by using them. The initial bulbs gave off a light that many found unpleasant, but newer models are nicer. Shop for them in places like Home Depot, which have a large selection.

• Many municipalities already offer good recycling programs. All glass, cans and paper should be recycled, along with as much plastic as possible.

• You may notice that cleaning products can be harsh on the eyes and nose. They can also be hard on the environment. For most household cleaning, you can use baking soda, white vinegar and Castille soap. You will save money and cut down on dangers for small children.

• Invest in a set of canvas bags. You can use these for a lot of shopping. Most people use them for groceries, but bring them along when buying books, toys or even clothes. If they are too bulky, there are many others that fold up and slip into small purses. Browse Reusable Bags, which has a huge selection of great bags for a variety of needs.

You’ve heard the phrase “reduce, reuse, recycle” as one of the mantras for simple ways to save the environment. You might be surprised how easy this is to act on.

• One of the most important things you can do is reduce. You probably send all the junk mail you receive straight into recycling, but if you write to Mail Preference Service, Direct Marketing Association, 11 West 42nd St., PO Box 3861, New York, NY 10163-3861 to opt out of receiving the mail at all, you’ll be doing the planet and your postal carrier a big favor.

• Instead of using foil or plastic wrap to store leftovers, use reusable containers. Glass is your best option and it has the advantage of being microwaveable.

• Old clothes that are unsuitable for charity shops can be cut up into rags, so that you can stop using paper towels. They won’t take up much more space in the washing machine.

• At work, use a metal or ceramic mug instead of plastic or anything that is otherwise disposable. If your work does not provide reusable plates or utensils, bring your own and wash them at home.

There are hundreds of simple ways to save the environment, many of which will have a positive impact on your wallet down the line.

• If you buy a power cord with an on/off switch and plug all your appliances in it, you can simply turn it off and thus prevent leaving anything on standby. You might be surprised how much power you are wasting with the standby feature.

• When it’s time to replace an appliance, look for an Energy Star model. They use less power and most states will give you a tax rebate for the purchase.

• Shop at your local farmers’ market. More and more cities and towns have them. Supporting local produce is good for the local economy as well as the environment, and you are reducing the amount of packaging that would have to be thrown away. Bring string bags that you can use instead of plastic for even more savings.

Little things really do mean a lot, and the more eco-conscious you become in your daily life, the more you are doing to preserve the planet for the long haul.

• Ways to Prevent Global Warming
• 50 Specific Actions of Green Living
• Examples of Sustainable Development

• United States Recycling Statistics
• Types of Pollution
• Air Pollution Statistics
• Effects of Water Pollution
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Biofuels

• Why Is it Important to Go Green
• City Car Share
• Solar Power Roof Vents
• Coral Reef Destruction
• Ways to Protect the Environment