7 Ways to Help The Environment

I was reading my new favorite Environmetnal Blog and I started thinking about the things that I have been doing in my everyday life to help save the planet. I came up with a list of things that I think everyone can start doing right away, so if you aren’t thinking about the earth, this is your big chance to start making a change.

Buy low wattage light bulbs - You know the kind. They look like a tube that has been twisted up into the shape of a bulb. They fit into your standard light socket, and use a lot less electricity. The bulbs I got say that they should last 9 years, based on 3 hours of usage per day and will save you about $56 (USD) in electricity costs, over those 9 years. The downside is that these bulbs contain mercury, so I guess they aren’t perfect. I got mine at the Dollar Tree, which means they only cost me $1 each!
More info: GreenLiteUSA.com

Wash your clothes with cold water - I use cold water to wash all my clothes. This cuts down on the energy that would have been used to heat my warm water, and it stops your colors from running. I also use about 1/2 the recommended amount of detergent, and my boxers still come out smelling fresh.

Use mass transit - This may not be feasible for everyone, but if you live in a city that has a good rail and bus system, you can help the environment and save some money by becoming a regular rider. Those trains are running whether or not you ride them, and the amount of money I spend each month on transit (about $80) is nothing compared to what I would be spending if I owned a car. You also get extra time to read your favorite book, since you don’t have to drive yourself.

Ride your bike - During the summer months, riding your bike is a great way to get around town and to get some exercise. Riding my bike became a daily occurrence this summer and I got to explore parts of my city that I had never seen before. Check out your local visitors association for maps of bike-friendly streets and trails.

Turn off your computer - I had a roommate in college who insisted that turning on your computer uses more electricity than leaving it on for the entire night while you are asleep. I suppose he could have been right, since it was 8 years ago and he had an older model computer, but these days we have all sorts of energy efficient desktops. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that you turn off your monitor if you will be away for more then 20 minutes, and you turn off your computer if you will be away for more than 2 hours.
More info: Computer Energy Tips

Don’t buy bottled water - There have been a lot of talk in the local newspapers about bottled water and the ill effects on the environment. The fact is that millions of plastic bottles are thrown into landfills every year, when you could simply buy one reusable bottle and fill that up in the sink. Plus it will save you a ton of money. If you have an issue with water that is right out of the sink, then consider getting a Brita or other water filter.
More info: AllAboutWater.org

Reuse your old grocery bags - I’ll often come home from the grocery store with 10 plastic bags full of food - double that many if the double-bag them. I’ve been saving my bags and taking them back to my grocery store where they recycle them. You can also reuse them as garbage bags, lunch bags, or anything else you might need to carry. Another option is to purchase some non-disposable bags that can be reused every time you go to the store. I think my local grocery store sells them for 99 cents each.

If you have suggestions about how we can easily make a positive impact on the environment, leave a comment and I will be sure to respond!