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Living green is about lifestyle and choice and is not that difficult. It is about taking action to lead a healthier and more sustainable life.

Many of the things we do today cannot be continued indefinitely without having an impact on the future livability of our country.

An increase in waste is not sustainable. But if we avoid excess packaging, and we recycle wherever possible, we can make a huge difference.

Growth in coal-fired energy each year is not sustainable. But by turning off lights and appliances at the switch when not in use, or switching to green power will help tackle climate change.

Driving cars everywhere we travel is not sustainable or good for our health. But if we choose to leave the car at home and choose more 'active transport' like walking, cycling or public transport which will help clear the air and contribute to a healthier environment and leave more money in your pocket.

Being green is about considering the environment in all we do.

A few short years ago the idea of green' or environmentally sustainable building practices was foreign to the majority of people. These days the population is more aware that ever about the importance of being green and while many people are now recycling, there are other simple measures we can implement in our homes, schools and workplaces to make them even greener'.

1. Reducing water consumption in the home is a simple and easy way to decrease water and energy bills and reduce your household's impact on the environment. Have shorter showers and fit water efficient shower-heads, toilets, taps and appliances. Install a rainwater tank. Rainwater can be used on the garden, for washing clothes or in the toilet. These days there are a wide variety of tanks available from virtually undetectable slim-line, color coordinated tanks to 50,000 gallon all purpose tanks.

2. Try to avoid buying plastic as it takes a long time to break down. Take reusable bags with you when you go shopping.

3. Compost and reduce waste. When our rubbish goes to the tip, it doesn't just go away. It gets buried and produces green house gases as the materials decompose. The best thing you can do is reduce the amount of rubbish you have to throw away. Look for products that are durable and can be reused. Start up a compost heap and recycle weeds, leaves, lawn clippings and pruning, vegetable scraps, shredded newspaper and wood ash.

4. Landscape with natives. Grow plants, trees and grasses that are native to your area wherever possible. Native plants

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