Go Green
and
Help Save the Environment:
It's Free

In the last few years, the concern for saving the environment has greatly increased and a variety of “green” efforts have emerged to help preserve our planet. Included in the efforts are a variety of ways to help save the environment that do not cost any money.

Reduce Utility Bills by Going Green

One of the easiest and most important ways to help the environment is to use less water.

Shutting off the water when washing dishes or brushing teeth is a simple way to decrease water usage.

People can also reduce the amount of time they spend in the shower and how often they water their grass.

It is also important to regularly check faucets and other appliances to make sure there are no leaks.

Reduce the amount of electricity by developing a routine of turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use.

People can also use less energy by using natural light and turning down their heat.

When going on vacation, people can turn down or shut off their water heater.

Another way to reduce electricity is washing clothes in cold water as much as possible.

In the long run reducing electricity usage will help the environment and also help reduce electricity bills.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Recycle as many materials as possible such as plastic, paper, aluminum, glass, newspapers, and scrap metal. Also use as many less destructive and renewable sources and materials as possible.

People can reuse paper bags, butter tubs, and other containers to store food and other items. They can reuse and recycle by donating old clothing, books, toys, and other household items.

Reduce the amount of toilet paper and paper towels by only taking what is needed.

People can also use washable rags instead of paper towels for cleaning and other household duties.

Use cloth napkins and cloth diapers. Disposable diapers are not biodegradable and create a lot of waste around the world. Also avoid disposable plates, cups, and silverware.

Clean using vinegar and water or baking soda instead of using chemical products and try to avoid using pesticides and herbicides. Also do not put hazardous chemicals in the trash or down the drain.

People can pull out unwanted weeds instead of using harsh chemicals.

People can grow their own foods and use table scraps as compost in their gardens. They can also plant trees to help create shade their homes and air conditioning units.

Leaving grass clippings on the yard helps reduce waste and return nutrients to the soil. Using recycled wood chips is a great way to reduce weeds and retain moisture.

Help save paper by writing to companies that send unwanted junk mail and requesting to be removed from their list. People can also use scrap paper for notes and to-do lists. Printing and copying on both sides of the paper is also a great way to reduce the amount of paper used.

Volunteer with organizations that are committed to conservation efforts.

This article provided by DegreeFinders.com. Visit Degree Finders for more information on careers in environmental science.

Last Update: February 2010