I’ve considered myself somewhat of a tree-hugger since, well forever. Unfortunately, this is one of the areas that I’m certainly Perfectly Flawed. This Going Green, is overwhelming. Where do we start, what can we do, can we really make a difference? The answer is YES, yes we can! Start small and be ok with the smallness of it, then add a little at a time, at your comfort level. Here in St. Petersburg, they are beginning recycling pick-ups again this October. So if you’re one of those that hasn’t been taking your recyclables to the drop off receptacles, now is your time!
Wish my fridge looked like this, ha.
There are many little things you can do, right now, to begin going green:
Turn off the water as you brush your teeth.
Change all your light bulbs to fluorescent.
Find local food by shopping Farmers Markets, etc.
Keep an eye on the thermostat.
Turn off computers at night.
Shorten your shower.
Use warm or cold settings on the washer.
Give things away.
Recycle. Reuse.
Go paperless (ex. pay bills online)
Plant a tree.
Inflate your tires.
Turn off your lights when not in use.
These are easier things, and no, I’m not doing them all (ha. I love a long shower), but I’m working on adding them to my daily routine. Don’t ever feel that you’re not doing enough. Every little thing counts. So regardless of if you only recycle or if you compost everything and are vegan, etc. What you’re doing is helping to make a difference.
If you’re really hard core, here is a list of 99 Skills for an Eco-Friendly DIY Lifestyle, Whoa. How many do you do? I have really good intentions but….
Here are some other sites if you’re looking to expand your Greenness.
Green Guide
The Daily Green
Care2
Planet Green
TreeHugger
Organic Trade Association
Eat Wild Find Local Food:-)
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I don’t think you should be ok with the littleness per se. I think you reach for doing at least the thing with the biggest bang. For most families it means scaling back meat. I am not asking everyone to become raw foodists or even give up meat but designate a meat free friday or rethink your portions. As a bonus you’ll save a little cash and improve your health while going green! A girlfriend of mine gave up “waste” for lent. Brilliant!
I just think that some people get paralyzed and end up doing nothing because it’s too overwhelming to even think about it. So it’s a good idea for them to be ok with doing one small thing first and then adding things a little at a time. I love the idea of a meatless night. We do that and I should have added it to the list. Thanks for adding that!