by Cameron Chapman

Created on: February 04, 2007   Last Updated: April 19, 2007

There are tons of things that people can do to help the environment, and some of them are very easy. Did you know that keeping your refrigerator and freezer full can help the environment? (It's true. Solids retain temperature better than air, so your fridge or freezer works less to keep a constant temperature). Buying local products helps too, as less energy is used in transportation. Buying things in bulk (less packaging) and buying produce that isn't prepackaged is a big help too (less material usage and less waste). Turning your thermostat down just one degree is a big help too (and saves you money).

More things you can do:

Carpool or take public transportation

Practice "trip-linking" - plan out your errands, shopping, work commute, appointments, etc. and make just one trip

Buy organic and fair trade products whenever possible

Donate your time or money to your favorite environmental causes

Use a laptop instead of a desktop (they use less power)

Install compact fluorescent light bulbs instead of halogens or incandescents

And here are some big things you can do:

Install solar panels or wind power. Use a grid-tied system and your excess energy production will power other buildings.

Build a home using renewable resources (straw bale, cordwood, papercrete, FSC certified wood, etc.)

Buy a hybrid, or a diesel (and run it on biodiesel)

Telecommute or start your own (green) business

Learn more about this author, Cameron Chapman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.