It is about time that people begin treating the planet with more respect. It is the only environment we have, and we do not want to treat it as a dumping ground for toxic chemicals. Everyone should look for ways they can do their part to create a more sustainable future. We all should learn how to go green.
Going green starts in the backyard. Decrease your reliance on a food supply that is dependent on petroleum fertilizers, industrial machinery, and toxic pesticides. Most importantly, you want to avoid genetically modified foods. The best way of doing this is by growing your own organic food supply in the backyard. Hay bale gardening is a great way for anyone to get started growing vegetables with a minimal amount of physical labor. In addition to helping the environment, eating organic food will make your more healthy.
Next consider more healthy ways of conserving water. You can implement a gray water system so that you recycle part of your consumption so that you use less on a daily basis. Do not obsess on having the greenest lawn on the block. Make sure that you are using a low flow toilet and take short showers instead of baths. You also will want to thoroughly check your house for leaks or faucets that are dripping.
The use of renewable energy is a great way to go green. Solar photovoltaic systems have become much more affordable over the last several decades. If you live in an area with a lot of sunshine these can dramatically reduce the amount of electricity you get from the grid while reducing your electric bill. If you use a grid tie system, you can even be compensated for extra clean electricity that you contribute to the grid.
It is also important that you configure your home to minimize the use of air conditioning and natural gas. Install double paned windows and the highest quality insulation to better protect your house from the elements. Make sure to keep your doors and windows closed while your air conditioner is on. Keep the vents to the system only open in rooms that you are occupying. Also, consider getting a programmable thermostat to help turn off the air when you no longer need it. Re-evaluate whether you really need air conditioning or heat. Wearing a sweater around the house or installing a fan by your desk are much more efficient ways of gaining some degree of temperature control.
Transportation is a significant use of scarce resources. If you can, consider finding a work at home job to get rid of the daily commute. In addition to being more environmentally friendly, this also will decrease the amount of time you spend in traffic. When you do have to go out, either use public transportation or get some exercise on a good bicycle. If you must drive a car, then consider buying a gas-electric hybrid with good gas mileage.
Learning how to go green is not that difficult. Just start to be mindful as to how your everyday decisions affect the environment. By starting with the steps listed above, you will begin to set a great example for those around you.
