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Living "green" is fast becoming a way of life for millions of people around the globe. Others are hesitant to do so...but why? Some may think that they have to completely change their lives in order to help the environment. Sure, there are some things you may do that require elimination or cutting back, but by making some simple alternative choices in your daily routine, it is very easy to become green and maintain a green lifestyle.

Here are a few suggestions to get your family "green":

1. Buy organic foods. Yes, they do taste just as good. Organically grown foods are grown without pesticides or any form of growth stimulants that can harm the environment. The more people that buy organic, the less amount of harmful chemicals or environmentally damaging processes will be used. And guess what - they are healthier for you.

2. Monitor your indoor climate. In the winter time, have the heat locked at 20C/68F. If you find it chilly, put on a sweatshirt or grab a blanket. In the summer, keep the air conditioning locked at 24C/75F. These methods can save up to 20% on your electric bill and obviously the less energy used is beneficial to the environment.

3. Remember the three R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. It is very common to see a recycling box in the average home. But is it used to its capacity? Maximize the amount you can fit in your blue box by compacting your items. Crush your soda cans flat. Break down all cardboard boxes flat. If you are recycling paper, don't crumple it up into a ball; place it in the blue box the way it is. You can fit 500% more paper in a blue box by not crumpling it into a ball. By compacting everything, you are maximizing space at your local recycling facility thus resulting in a more efficient operation there. Other things to keep in mind: reuse empty juice containers for water jugs for the garden; or even for making your own juice. If you have an outdoor barbecue party and use plastic utensils, don't throw them away! You can wash them and reuse them just like normal cutlery. It's not being cheap...it's being environmentally aware.

4. Compost. If you have a garden, don't buy factory made fertilizers. Again some products such as fertilizers are made with harmful chemicals. The less we rely on man-made products, the better.

5. Don't drive to work. If at all possible walk or ride a bicycle to work. If it's too far, take mass transit or carpool with someone. Take a close look at the highways around you...you'll find that most cars have only 1 driver

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