Green Lifestyle

The buzz word today is Green. Every syndicated network is talking about green. It is almost impossible to watch the evening news without seeing a segment on a global warming issue or a report on a going green project in your state. Green is the subject all over the world and has been for a number of years in other countries. It has been gaining popularity in the United States the past few years.

Going Green is more than changing light bulbs and learning a few new words. Going Green is a lifestyle that until recently, only a few could imagine and a smaller group would consider.

We as consumers, share the responsibility to learn how products are produced and how they were brought to market. So, we can buy products that were produced efficiently and use products that operate efficiently. We owe it to ourselves and the planet to find solutions to conserve energy, consume less of the products made from crude oil and buy from companies that are responsible for their C02 emissions.

Most importantly, use available information to make decisions on what products to buy. If we are diligent in our research we will find companies that are responsible for their Co2 Emissions when making their products. Ultimately, our buying habits will dictate how manufacturers produce and deliver the products.

Going green is the responsible thing to do but, you don't have to change overnight. Imagine if, 30% of the population cut back on electricity by simply turning off lights, televisions, computers and electrical gadgets around the house. The responsible thing to do. The energy demand could drop by 10%. That is a good start.

What can an individual do? Investigate and learn new tips and tricks to conserve water and save energy around your environment. When you buy replacement light bulbs buy the efficient style. The manufacturers are developing stylish models for most fixtures. If you are thinking of remodeling or upgrading appliances choose Energy Star rated appliances. They will serve you well and save on electricity costs. There are models for all budgets.

If you don't recycle your waste then do a little research. The landfills are bulging with recyclable materials. FYI... There are plastic containers that are not recyclable. Learn to identify them and avoid buying them if you can. Learn how to store recyclable materials and where to take your recycle containers. If your city does not have a recycle program then call them. Let them know that you are interested in recycling. They may offer some alternative locations or better yet start a recycle program in your area.

Look for ways to save electricity around the house. Turn off your lights, televisions, computers and fans when you leave a room or when you leave the house. Don't forget to unplug battery chargers. Take a close look around your home for drafts leaking doors and windows. Many simple measures can be taken to seal a home.

A programmable thermostat for your heat and air conditioning unit is worth the investment. You can raise or lower the temperature setting when you leave the home and readjust the temperature before you arrive. They are easy to set-up and saves a bundle on your electricity bill.

Our planet is partly warming because of the greenhouse effect of Co2 emissions accumulating in our atmosphere. A large percent of Co2 emissions comes from the process of converting coal into electric energy and crude oil into a usable products. Products like gas, diesel and plastics. Plastics are used for almost everything and are becoming one of the biggest burdens on our landfills.

For every product that is produced, a little Co2 emission is released into our atmosphere that warms our planet a little more.

With a change in our individual lifestyle we can conserve energy. By simply, being more responsible for the products and the energy we consume, collectively as a community we can make a huge difference. It is the responsible thing to do. In the near future, I see a community where many people are joining together to share ideas, learn from each other and work together on common goals.