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Can Going Green Be Cheap and Easy?
It can often feel like choosing the most enviromentally-friendly option can also be the most expensive, especially when shopping for organic foods and household goods. This can be frustrating for those just starting out on a more green lifestyle. There is still a prevailing feeling that going green is just too much hassle or expense. I admit, I feel like this sometimes, too. To combat that way of thinking, I just check out the great ideas iVillagers are sharing every day in our community. On our Living Simple & Green message board, cl-kellie0901 recently kicked off a discussion for iVillagers to share their tips on reducing, reusing and recycling -- all while saving money! They've shared over 50 tips so far, including these small changes you can do right now (yes you!):
"Install a programmable thermostat. There are inexpensive models available and they are simple to install. Set the thermostat for lower temps when you aren't home and when you are sleeping, and for higher temps when you want the house comfortable. What little you spend on the thermostat will be earned back in energy savings." -- revolutions
"Make at least one main meal a week meatless. Meat, especially beef, is expensive and not very enviro-friendly." -- laurajane28
"Go back to good old bar soap. You use it up and it's gone, while bath & shower gels leave you with a big plastic bottle." -- cl-kellie0901
Join in the conversation for more great tips -- and while you're there, share a few of your own!
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Why does it need to be cheap and easy? Why is everyone so concerned with it being cheap and easy? Shouldn't we do whatever it takes to save our planet, not only for ourselves, but for future generations of the human race? The very question is absurd, and speaks to the absolute laziness of today's society.
You want to do things to reduce your carbon footprint that are "cheap and easy"? Then walk to the recycling bin and throw your recyclable water bottle or soda can in it instead of putting in the trash bin. Save your grocery bags (if you're not willing to invest in reusable ones) and bring them to the store with you next time you go. These are two very simple things that will reduce TONS of waste, literally.
Cheap and easy tends to get peoples' attention. Once they start with the easier ways of being green, more effective ways will follow. Many of us have lots of 'green' habits having never really thought about it; my mom calls it frugal.
Sharing cheap and easy ways to live a green lifestyle is hardly absurd and lazy! Take a step back from your soap box and be open to all efforts to live a green lifestyle!
Changing ANY behavior takes baby steps, and if you want them to be a lifestyle change it needs to start small and easy (and affordable). And, as you realize the many benefits of your new "green" behavior you will be more committed, consistent, and a champion of it.
ESPECIALLY in today's financial climate, people are looking for cheap ways to be green. And when it comes down to it, every little bit helps if thousands/millions of people are doing hundreds of little green steps.
But, that's just my two cents!