by Stephanie Harris

Created on: June 06, 2008   Last Updated: June 11, 2008

Living green by example is not as difficult as one may think. It only takes one person's actions to become the catalyst for many. Start now and become the change for tomorrow. This article will show you 5 simple ways you can easily live green now.

(1) Turn it off, turn it down and pull the plug. The simplest way to get started is to turn off unnecessary lights, turn down your water tank temperature and unplug unused electronics. When you leave rooms in your home and office, turn off the lights. Use the sunlight in the windows during the days. Turn your water tank down to 120 degrees. When you are not using electronics (such as a phone charger), unplug them. Even when not charging a phone, the device itself uses energy while plugged in.

(2) Recycle. Recycling aluminum cans, glass, plastic bottles and even plastic store sacks helps reduce Carbon Dioxide emissions. Make sure your home is equipped with at least two receptacles: one for trash and one for recyclables.

(3) Invest in recycled, energy efficient and concentrated materials. Purchase products made of recycled materials and carry reusable bags to bring home your products. As old light bulbs burn out, purchase Compact Fluorescent Lights. They use 67& less energy. If buying new equipment or appliances, look for the "ENERGY STAR" label indicating the product reduces energy use by up to 30%. While purchasing detergents, look for concentrated formulas. The smaller bottles reduce the amount of plastic made and the fuel used to move the product.(www.epa.gov)

(4) Change your transportation. Carpool, walk, bike or use public transportation. Leaving your car at home two days a week helps reduce Carbon Dioxide emissions by 1,590 pounds per year (www.epa.gov). Make sure your vehicle is current on mechanical services . This reduces fuel costs and unnecessary emissions. Keeping your tires inflated properly also reduces fuel costs and lengthens the life of your tires.

(5) Go green with your green. Choose paperless billing and bank statements. Use your checkcard instead of checks. Pay your bills online.

Beyond these simple five steps, remember to educate. Tell your family and friends what you know and that it is important to you. Your example will make a difference!

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