The New Year is fast approaching and there is no better time than now to make plans to go green. For years I kept telling myself that I need to do my part for the environment and I always found excuses not to. I always convinced myself that there wasn’t enough time or money to make it happen. Last year was different. I discovered that there are several simple ways to go green that actually save money and that take minimal time and effort. Here is my list of 10 GREEN New Year’s Resolutions from last year that I hope you can put into practice in 2012.
1. Drive less.
I take public transportation, carpool, and arrange errands in a manner that allow me to use my time and gas conservatively.
2. Recycle.
I purchased inexpensive plastic bins in different colors to store paper, plastic, aluminum, & glass until I take them to the larger bins in my housing complex for collection. For resources for recycling in your area go to earth911.org. Electronics may also be recycled if they do not work or you no longer have use for them. Mygreenelectronics.org can help you find an electronics recycling resource in your area.
3. Be more energy efficient.
I purchased compact fluorescent bulbs for every room in the house and surprisingly, the cost was minimal in comparison to how much energy I save and how long they last. They use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer than regular bulbs. I unplug EVERYTHING with LED lighting that is not currently in use rather than simply turning it off. It’s amazing how much energy electronics and appliances use when powered off. I always make sure that the dishwasher and washing machine are completely full before using them to save energy and water. My home thermostat is set to 68°F year round. Lastly, I keep my refrigerator at 37°F and my freezer at 0°F. These temperatures keep my food at proper temperatures while keeping my energy usage at a minimum.
4. Donate unwanted items.
My closets, drawers, and cabinets were full of clothing, shoes, accessories, kitchen utensils, toys, and games that I did not need. I donated them all to charity.
5. Barter and buy used items instead of making new purchases.
I list items I want to give away on freecycle.org and then post a listing for any items that I need. I also shop the best thrift and consignment stores before buying anything new.
6. Eat well.
In my area there is a weekend farmer’s market where I can purchase produce, seafood, meat, and baked goods that are fresh and inexpensive. This allows me to support local farmers, butchers, fisherman, and bakers while saving money and getting a higher quality food product. Eatwellguide.org will direct you to high quality food producers in your area. I also cook a vegetarian meal twice a week since it is cheaper to raise produce than it is to raise animals.
7. Buy reusable shopping bags.
I keep a nylon tote in my purse to put groceries, medicines, and any other items I purchase in so that I don’t use plastic or paper bags.
8. Buy a reusable coffee mug and water bottle.
I never need to recycle paper coffee cups or plastic water bottles because I have no need to use them. My mug and bottle travel with me everywhere and it only takes a minute to wash and refill them.
9. Save paper.
When I use my printer, I make sure it is set so that it prints on both sides of the page instead of just one. I’ve reduced the amount of junk mail I receive by registering with the Direct Marketing Association’s Mail Preference Service at dmaconsumers.org.
10. Be label conscious.
Whenever I can, I buy USDA organic, rainforest alliance certified, fair trade certified, and certified humane food products. I look for paper products that have the green seal. I buy appliances and electronics that are energy efficient.
These small changes can make a huge difference for the environment, take very little time, and make up for what they cost in energy savings.