by E.D. Cameron

Created on: August 24, 2007

The thought of "going green" can be daunting for the aspiring earth-friendly family. However, simple changes can not only be environmentally conscious but also be a great method for teaching children home economics, energy production and consumption, and social responsibility. At a minimum, the whole family can benefit from "green" practices by learning the practice of waste not want not.

A fun way to get the whole family involved is to take a tour around your household. By quickly thinking about daily activities and ways that habits can be modified you can develop a "go green" checklist.

The first step is to hit the obvious, by tackling household appliances and fixtures. Energy Star light bulbs can not only reduce your electricity bills, but use up to seventy-five percent less energy while lasting ten times longer. You might also discuss other ways to cut back on light bulb use: do your kids leave their room light on when they leave the house? Do you keep lights on in the living or family room at all times of the day? Does someone always forget to switch off the garage light? You can have your children design cute reminders that not only promote a reduction in energy use but also give you a warm fuzzy reminder of your new green habits. You might even suggest turning off all entertainment appliances (television, game consoles, computers, phones, etc) and having a weekly, old-fashioned board game night.

A common waste that many regions in the US are sensitive to is water. Turning off the water while brushing your teeth can, over a lifetime, add up to a substantial water savings! For the ambitious eco-minded, you might in a new low flow toilet or low flow shower head. Toliet account, on average, for over twenty five percent of household water usage, and with a low flow toilet you can reduce every flush by more than two gallons of water while still getting the job done.

Another easy replacement is with household cleaning products. You can get a lot of quality scrubbing and scouring done with vinegar, lemons, and baking soda. They are more than likely already in your pantry, and can do a variety of household cleaning tasks from windows to bathtubs to carpets. This not only saves in the plastic packaging associated with the ten to twenty different household cleaners under your sink, but also has no toxicity associated with many common cleaning products.

Next stop on the household tour is a look at your desk. Piled up with bills? Why not convert to on line statements

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