Going Green is simple and with a little thought you can find a number of ways you can green up your life, home and workplace. Below is a list of easy tips and ways to go green that you can use in your daily living.
Set your thermostat for heating lower and air-conditioning higher.
Turn off lights when you are not in the room. Open curtains for natural light.
Use movement sensor switches for lights where appropriate.
Purchase energy efficient Energy Star appliances.
When possible, use cold water to wash clothes.
Turn off or if possible unplug unused appliances.
Use timers and automated thermostats to better control usage.
Avoid chemical cleaning products. A solution of warm water and white vinegar will work for most home cleaning jobs. When necessary, environmentally friendly cleaning products can now be found in many stores.
Avoid purchasing goods made with plastics or other artificial products. This will help to reduce the dependency on oil as plastics are petroleum based.
Purchase furniture and other products that are made with recycled materials and solid woods. (Fabricated woods may contain formaldehyde or other toxins.)
Repair leaky faucets and toilets.
Install low flow aerators on faucets and shower heads.
Don't let the water run unnecessarily when brushing teeth or doing dishes.
Use collection barrels to collect rain water for yard and garden watering.
Choose flooring, window treatments and wall papers that are made with natural fibers or rapidly renewable resources such as cotton and wool for textiles and bamboo, cork, brick, slate, stone or other non-petroleum based products for floors.
Use water based or milk based paints, stains and sealants. Use products that have low volatile organic compounds (VOC's) Paints and stains are believed to be the second largest emitter of of VOC's next to autos.
Use fewer paper towels. Replace them with washable and reusable cloth towels.
