If respecting the environment and conserving for the future aren't motivation enough to go green, then maybe the economical savings will convince you. When considering to reduce, reuse or recycle, think about the cost savings. It is a win-win for the consumer and the environment. Going green can be as easy as filling up a coffee mug each morning instead of a plastic foam cup.
Go Green Diet
One way to go green every day is to look at your diet. Believe it or not, what you put in your mouth makes a difference to more than your waistline. For example, processed foods produce 30 percent more waste than those that are homemade, writes Kate Geagan, Green Health/Living expert. So instead of buying a box of imitation potato flakes, try starting with a real Idaho. Whole foods are also healthier for you because they have more dietary fiber.
Stay Local
Another thing to consider when purchasing whole foods like produce is to shop local. Buying local doesn't mean you will pay more. In 2008, Wal-Mart announced its commitment to feature more local foods to cut down on shipping costs. According to Planet Green.com, the average number of miles food travels from farm to the store is 1,500 to 2,500 miles; that's 25 percent more than two decades ago. Another bonus is that local food is often fresher and less contaminated.
Go Veg
An even more impactful way to reduce energy is to eat less meat. An agricultural economist at Purdue University predicts that meat eaters will be spending a lot more money in 2011. This is mainly due to the rising cost of corn and other grains to feed the livestock. However, the cost of meat production is what is taxing the environment, eating up energy and water resources. Consider doing your part by just going meatless once a week.
Dining Out
The cost of dining out alone is costly enough, but there are ways to cut back on your bill and your carbon footprint. Start by choosing local restaurants that tend to use locally grown ingredients rather than larger chain restaurants. Choose menu options that are mainly produce instead of meat-based. Remember, the less processed the food is, the lesser impact it has on the planet. Another great way to manage your weight and save money is to split a meal or take half home.
Dining In
There a few easy changes that you can make when cooking at home. By downsizing to smaller appliances, you save energy. Using the microwave for three minutes instead of turning on the oven will use half the energy. Making double portions will save energy, money and time! Make a double batch, and freeze the rest for another meal. You can extend going green to grocery shopping, too. Start bringing reusable bags to carry your groceries home instead of using plastic. Start buying in bulk to save gas on multiple trips to the store. Bulk purchases also cut down on packaging waste.
Green Your Fitness Routine
Outdoor exercise will always trump indoors when it comes down to conserving resources. Outdoor workouts can also boost calorie burn by exposing the body to external elements such as uneven terrain, hills or strong winds. For example, running on an indoor treadmill requires electricity. Air conditioning, lights, fans and possibly television or music are all common energy stealers used during a workout. Now consider the energy used when running outdoors -- only your body. To start small, try incorporating your fitness routine into daily errands, such as riding your bike to work or walking to the store. Not only are you saving the environment, you are saving gas and getting exercise!
Member Comments