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It's not easy going green, especially in today's fast paced, high need society. So how can we, as the average consumer, feel as if we are doing our part for the planet, with out much effort or cost?

There are some easy one time steps which save the planet, and your money when it comes to water conservation. Find a clean, empty bottle (like a plastic soda bottle), fill it about half-way up with rocks, screwing the lid on very tightly so that it won't come off, place it into the water tank of your toilet. No one will see it, or probably even notice, but this allows you to use less water per flush. Which is much better than the 'if it's yellow let it mellow' rule.

Another trick with the water is to pay attention to your shower head. There are available (at the same price or cheaper as regular heads) water conserving shower heads. They have an 'pause' button which stops the water when you are sudsing up, and you 'unpause' to rinse off, without losing your water temp. They also have a smaller head, which allows less water through, but it feels like the same pressure as your regular head would have.

You have probably already noticed it in your favorite store, or local super market that they are now offering re-usable totes for your purchases. This saves on all those wasted plastic or paper bags, plus their becoming very trendy. Instead of buying one, you can even make your own - recycle some old jeans or shirts and get creative!

Running your dish washer half full is something we are all guilty of at times, but consider washing by hand next time. Fill up a tub with your water, and wash your dishes, then, instead of just throwing the water down the drain, use it to water your house plants or flower beds.

If you are an avid reader, instead of going out to buy the latest books, check at local thrift stores, garage sales, or even (gasp) get a library card! Not only will you save money, but you'll lessen the demand for paper!

Everyone knows to turn off that light when you're not in the room, but other appliances may waste even more money and energy! For instance, it costs about .50 to run your dryer at home, while that might not sound like a fortune, it adds up over time. Dry your clothes outside if possible, you'll save money and they'll smell great!

On that note, next time you have to buy a new appliance, buy an energy rated one. They work great, save you money, plus in most cases you can claim them on your taxes - and get back a good portion!

Make your shopping list on a mini-dry erase board, this saves you paper - and time! Write down any errands you have for the week, and what you'll need. Plan ahead, you might be able to catch deals, buy bulk, and save yourself a trip, and consequently, gas!

Try to walk as much as possible too, it makes you feel great and saves gas money (not to mention since you'll have to carry your purchases, your less likely to impulse buy!).

Another clever way to save the planet one person at a time, not to mention your waist line, is to cut out as much soda from your life as possible. All those plastic bottles and foam cups add up to a lot of trash. If you have to get your caffeine fix, consider buying a reusable cup, many gas stations offer them, and it's generally cheaper.

It's not always easy going green, but, if we all do a little, it will add up to a lot!

Learn more about this author, Lucy Anne Stone.
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