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How to Make the Switch to Go Green

Environmental issues are becoming more and more prevalent, encouraging individuals to become more environmentally conscious. Through small day-to-day changes, homes are becoming more energy efficient, people are conserving water and reducing waste and ultimately choosing "greener" lifestyles. With solar panels, energy efficient appliances and electric cars, it may seem as though you need thousands of dollars to go green. Fortunately, even small, inexpensive changes will help the environment and save you money in the long run.

Things You'll Need

Energy efficient light bulbs
Compost bin
Recycling bin
Environmentally safe cleaner

Instructions

- 1
  
  Carpool with friends or coworkers in order to save gas and help the environment.
  
  Drive less. Instead of using your vehicle to get from point A to point B, consider the alternatives. Walk, ride a bike, carpool or take the bus at least twice a week. This will reduce both fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
- 2
  
  Turn off the lights, open the blinds and invite natural sunlight into your home.
  
  Save energy. When your electronics are not in use, turn them off and unplug them. Switch to energy efficient light bulbs, appliances and electronics. Keep your home insulated to reduce how often you use heat and air conditioning. Lower the temperature on your water heater to save energy and money.
- 3
  
  Encourage children to turn off the tap when brushing teeth.
  
  Reduce water consumption. When brushing your teeth, turn off the tap. Reduce shower times to 10 minutes or less. Collect rainwater to use for your flowers. You may also invest in shower heads that conserve water.
- 4
  
  A compost bin reduces waste and creates nutrient-rich soil.
  
  Start a compost bin. Toss organic food scraps into a compost bin. This will create nutrient-rich soil you can use in your garden, saving money on store-bought topsoil.
- 5
  
  One of the easiest ways to "go green" is through recycling.
  
  Recycle your goods. Recycling used to be the main way to go green. Today, it is one of many ways. Even still, recycling helps reduce waste and save energy. If you're crafty, some of your items may be reused. Old clothing, for example, may be transformed into fashionable tote bags or head scarves.
- 6
  
  Use cleaners with natural ingredients instead of man-made chemicals.
  
  Use "green" cleaners. Instead of purchasing chemical-laden cleaning products, opt for more natural cleaning methods, such as vinegar or baking soda and water.

Nature