In our last installment of our “Easy Ways to Go Green” series, we present you with 12 more opportunities to be environmentally conscious and reduce your carbon footprint. Combined with our previous two blogs, we’ve now given you 36 ways to easily go green:
** Instead of buying wrapping paper around the holidays, use extra newspaper or store flyers for a homemade touch. You can even use markers to add some color.
** Keep the complimentary shampoos, conditioners, soaps, and lotions that hotels give out. You can save them and use them on your next trip, which will save you from buying travel items.
** Repurpose candle jars. Once your candles have burned down, wash out the extra wax and use the jars as vases, lights, decorative pieces, and more.
** Make your own household cleaners. You’ll not only save money, you’ll also reduce the amount of chemicals you use. For a great list of recipes, click here.
** Instead of using and throwing away a cup every time you drink coffee or tea at work, bring your own mug and refill it.
** Start your own garden. You’ll cut down on energy consumption, save money on groceries, and enjoy having fresh fruits or vegetables available.
** When printing, set your printer to use both sides of the paper instead of just one.
** When traveling, book nonstop flights instead of ones with connections. Airplanes use the most fuel when taking off and landing, so a nonstop flight can help reduce fuel usage.
** To cut down on energy consumption, invest in a programmable thermostat that can automatically adjust the temperature of your home when you’re not there.
** Buy used. Instead of tapping into new resources, use ones that already exist. Try websites like Craigslist to find furniture, equipment, tools, and more that have been used but are still in good condition.
** Install a low-flow shower head. You’ll reduce the amount of water you use and save money on your water bills.
** When you can, use ceiling fans instead of air conditioning or heating. Our HVAC contractors will tell you that you’ll circulate the air in your home so that your HVAC system runs less.
Have a favorite way you go green? Share it with us!