Top 10 Cheap, Easy Ways to Start Going Green Around Your Home

While a major overhaul in society's way of thinking will be needed to address some of our planet's major environmental problems, we need to realize we have to take one step at a time, starting with small changes and ending with embracing a completely green lifestyle, perhaps even becoming activists for change in environmental policy. However, while you can continue thinking big, you've got to start small. Maybe you are just entering the world of green living and just want to know how to get started. Here are few easy ways to implement small earth-friendly changes in your home that might even save you money:

1.) Go paperless. While you may have grown accustomed to getting your bank statements, credit card bills and car insurance bills in the mail, most of these institutions are give their members the option to receive their statements, bills and information via e-mail. Whether you toss these mailings or shred them, the paper is often gone to waste. Free online bill pay is also an option at most banks, which will not only save you the cost of stamps, but will eliminate even more paper waste.

2.) Use compact fluorescent light bulbs rather than traditional incandescent light bulbs. Compact bulbs use 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last a great deal longer too. You can greatly limit your use of lights in your home by using natural light or even candles. Also, turn off lights when you leave a room.

3.) Turn off computers and unplug alarm clocks, cell phone chargers, laptop computer chargers, electric razor and toothbrush chargers during the day. If not, they will be drawing energy all day long whether they are being used or not. Clocks can easily be reset when you return home. This will also save you on your energy bill every month.

4.) Start recycling. Do some research to find out what kinds of recycling centers are available where you live. Start by setting up separate receptacles for paper, plastic and aluminum. You may even be able to make some extra money by recycling aluminum cans.

5.) Plant a garden. Even if it's just a small spice or vegetable garden, you are doing your part to incorporate organic items into your home.

6.) Buy energy-efficient appliances. Not only will they save you money in the long-run, but they will also conserve valuable water and energy.

7.) Substitute lemon juice, vinegar or club soda for harsh cleaners. A little vinegar on newspaper makes for streak-free mirrors. Baking soda and water work great on tile and tea tree oil, liquid soap and water are great for disinfecting surfaces.

8.) Hand water your lawn and garden and do not use sprinkler systems.

9.) Reuse sandwich bags. A quick rinse and they're good as new.

10.) Spread the word. Start a discussion group in your home and invite your friends to join you in going green.



This guest post is contributed by Raine Parker, who writes on the topics of accounting degree . She welcomes your comments at her email Id: raine.parker6@gmail.com .