Great Green Idea: Green Living: 5 Things you can do Today to Start Living Greener

5 Things you can do Today to Start Living Greener

We've all heard about the environmental crisis that the world is collectively facing. Severe environmental degradation and excessive consumption patterns have clearly brought us to this crisis. A common misconception is that much of the blame lies on unscrupulous companies that, for the past century or so, indiscriminately undertook large-scale activities that denuded our forests and polluted our waters and atmosphere. This misconception has led some to believe that the solution to the environmental crisis has nothing to do with them.

We should, however, also be aware of the impact that our own everyday habits and lifestyles have on our environment. Our refusal to cut down on our excessive consumption patterns and our continued patronage of environmentally-destructive products are precisely the very forces that drive these unscrupulous companies to continue with their destructive ways. By becoming more conscious about the environmental damage that we are individually causing, we may be able to realize how important it is for us to start living green and pitch in to the global struggle to reverse the environmental crisis. If you want to start living green, here are some of the things that you can start doing today:

1. Walk

Much of the climate and environmental problems that we are facing today can be traced back to the carbon emissions of cars and other automobiles. Do your part in cutting down our carbon emissions by limiting your use of vehicles. If the grocer's is only a few blocks away, leave the car in the garage and walk instead to your destination. You'll not only save up on fuel costs, you'll also get some exercise along the way. If the use of vehicles is necessary, consider arranging a car pool with your colleagues or friends.

2. Volunteer

You can research about environmental organizations and awareness-building activities in your city or hometown. Choose some that interest you and volunteer for their activities. Among the interesting events that are frequently lined up are clean-up drives, fun runs, and tree-planting events. This will get you in touch with other people, especially environmental activists, from whom you may be able to gain various insights and suggestions on how you can further help out with the environment.

3. Recycle

Segregate your garbage and set aside those items that can still be recycled or used. Some items can be brought to your local recycling centre where they can be recycled into new items such as bags, sports bottles and stationery. Other items in your household may also be revamped or given a new look rather than being thrown away. Before you throw out anything, consider if it can still be repaired, reused, or recycled, before actually disposing of it. If you really want to dispose of something that is still usable, consider giving it instead to a local charity or goodwill store.

4. Conserve water

Many of our water resources are already depleting and some have been severely polluted to the point that they are no longer fit for human consumption. At the same time, the construction of large water supply reservoirs such as dams has had a tremendous impact on our natural environment. Help curb all this by reducing your water consumption and avoiding wastage. Use a pail and dipper instead of a water hose when cleaning your car. When brushing your teeth, always use a glass or tumbler rather than keeping the water running. And take showers instead of long baths which consume more than twice as much water.

5. Grow your own vegetables

Growing vegetables in your house is one of the best options for going green. You can achieve great results by doing this. By growing your own vegetables, you'll be doing your part in lessening the demand for retail vegetables which have high environmental costs due to their transportation and chemical processing requirements. An organic garden can be easily set up and requires little space in your backyard. To get started, find out what vegetables can easily be grown in your local environment and climate.