Living Green Made Simpler

Here is an article from ReDirect Guide on Living Green. By changing even one thing on this list, the collective impact is huge. It is a fun challenge to see how you can change your life in even a small way. Enjoy!



Whether you are newly interested in green living or are a sustainability guru, our green living checklist will give you ideas for contributing to a healthier environment and a greener life for yourself, your family, and your community. Once you get started, you'll be amazed at how many simple changes you can make to live a greener life.

ENERGY

Change all your light bulbs to CFLs or LEDs

Lower your thermostat and water heater a few degrees

Sign up for green power through your local power provider

Insulate your walls and ceilings



WASTE

Implement a recycling and composting program at home and work

Educate yourself, your family and your employees about recycling, composting and waste reduction

Implement a sustainable purchasing policy and practice conscientious consumerism, considering how far things travel and what they're made of before you buy

Buy products with recyclable or minimal packaging, or better yet, no packaging

Think about buying used before buying new, seeking out gently used alternatives

Think about reusing, repurposing or donating something before you recycle or throw it away




WATER

Reduce your water usage by installing low flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads




BUILDING

Use local green builders who focus on reducing waste, using non-toxic materials, and energy efficiency

Get an energy audit for your home or business

Invest in energy efficient upgrades on existing buildings to save energy




FOOD

Purchase from local and organic sources

Support area agriculture by signing up for a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) or shopping at farmers' markets




TRANSPORTATION

Walk, bike, carpool or take public transit to work whenever possible

Encourage your employer to offer alternative transportation incentives or telecommuting options, when possible

Drive a fuel efficient or hybrid car or scooter

Consolidate travel by planning outings for maximum efficiency

Purchase carbon offsets for any necessary travel outside your local area


TOXINS/POLLUTION

Switch to eco-friendly cleaning, personal and home products

Check with your local government about properly disposing of toxins and chemicals such as motor oil, conventional household cleaners, paints, batteries, etc.




SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Switch your banking and investments to socially responsible institutions

Support local credit unions or banks




COMMUNITY

Volunteer and donate to environmental and social causes

Choose to support green businesses whenever possible

Seek out the advice of environmental experts and leaders in your community

Join environmentally focused councils, groups and associations in your area