by Elizabeth Wordsmith

Created on: February 25, 2010   Last Updated: February 26, 2010

As with most problems, citizens of this country have gotten into the bad habit of waiting for the government to show leadership and solve all problems. That attitude isn't very pro-active and not very efficient. Instead, everyone can do his or her own part to improve the environment and go "green" by taking simple actions and making inexpensive adjustments in their lives.

Recycle: Almost everything one tosses in the garbage can be used for a new purpose. So, think before you throw. Recycling centers take a vast array of items from obsolete computers and cell phones to old paint and tires, as well as paper, plastic, glass and newspaper. 

Habitat For Humanity takes many building products, old furniture, lighting fixtures and more. Old clothing can be donated to a charity or sold at a consignment shop. My community even has a facility for odd items that artists might use in their crafts. 

Take time to plan: If you can take care of several errands at the same time within a small radius of your home, do so. Make the phone call or do some research on the Internet before you spend hours and gallons of gas going from one store to another in search of some specific item. 

Get accurate directions before driving to a new location. Carpool when you can. Make grocery lists so you can decrease the number of trips to the store.

Plant a tree/save a tree: Many communities promote tree planting by providing free seedlings. Decrease the paper clutter in your home by paying bills on line. Use your paper shredder and send that paper to the recycling center.

Buy locally grown produce: This promotes your local economy as well as providing you with fresher produce. Environmentally, this also helps to reduce carbon emissions from transporting produce over many miles. 

Replace light bulbs with energy efficient light bulbs: This change will save you both time and money. They rarely need to be replaced and are at least three times more energy efficient.

Use indigenous plants in your landscape: Your local agricultural extension office can give you many suggestions. Native plants are hardier than non-indigenous plants. Generally they are more drought tolerant, grow well without soil additives, and need less fertilizer or insectide treatments. 

When you must replace your car, look for those that use less gas: Collectively we can all make a big impact even

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