Climate change, global warming, the environment – these are the most pressing issues facing the world today. The environmental impact that consumer goods, manufacturing and packaging have placed on the planet is enormous. In fact, it’s almost at the point of no return: if we don’t do something drastic to alter our behavior and change the way we treat the Earth, we may damage it beyond reach.

And that’s why going green is such an important environmental and social cause: because the planet depends on it. By “thinking globally and acting locally”, you’re doing your small part to be eco-friendly and to give Mother Nature a hand. Recycled paper means trees don’t have to be cut down to make new paper. Turning off all the lights when you leave home reduces harmful CO2 emissions. Using rechargeable batteries eliminates the need to throw away nickel-cadmium batteries into sensitive landfills. These are all small steps that you can take to go green and save the planet!

Everybody needs to go green, but it can only happen one person at a time – starting with you.

Energy Saving Ideas

1) ALWAYS POWER DOWN

When not using your computer, TV, radio or any other electronic device – turn it off. Not only will you be saving money on your monthly hydro bill, but you’ll also be reducing the levels of CO2 that your family releases. In fact, you can eliminate up to 300 lbs of CO2 each year just by shutting things off when you’re not using them!

2) ECO-FRIENDLY LIGHTS

Some municipalities have already mandated that homes must use smart, environmentally friendly light-bulbs. Approximately 12% of your electric bill comes from everyday lights. Low-emission, energy-saving light bulbs not only last up to 40% longer than incandescent bulbs, but they also use roughly 80% less energy too!

3) CHARGE, RECHARGE AND RECHARGE AGAIN

Always use rechargeable batteries. Each year, more than 600 million batteries are thrown out – going to landfills where they won’t biodegrade. Rechargeable batteries can be used over and over again before they lose their charge. In fact, one rechargeable battery can last up to 5 times longer than a nickel-cadmium battery.

4) GO COLD

When doing laundry, always wash in a cold setting that’s lower than 40ºC. Washing clothes in warm temperatures is 30% less efficient than doing so in colder temps.

Bonus Tip: Use environmentally friendly detergents, soaps and dryer sheets when washing your clothes.

Another Bonus Tip: Always wash your clothes at night before you go to bed to reduce electricity consumption.

5) UPDATE YOUR APPLIANCES

If you haven’t purchased new appliances recently, chances are they’re old and energy-inefficient. Today’s modern stoves, ovens and other appliances are designed to minimize energy-consumption while maximizing efficiency.

6) CLEAN YOUR FRIDGE

If you have old food in your fridge or freezer, then they’re working hard to keep food cool that you won’t ever eat. Nobody likes to do it, but go through your fridge and freezer and throw away rotten or spoiled food. You’ll be using less energy to keep the same amount of food fresh – as you would have thrown away the items you won’t eat.
Bonus Tip: Most cities have an organic-recycling program that collects food waste. These items are then used in environmentally friendly ways such as composting or fuel. Check to see if where you live has a green-bin program.

7) TIME YOUR SHOWERS

Taking long showers may feel good, but their actually bad for the environment. Installing a shower-timer conserves not only the water being used, but it also cuts down on the energy needed to heat the water. In fact, it should take no more than 5 minutes for a complete and effective shower.

8) TOO HOT? TOO COLD? JUST RIGHT!

Simply lower your thermostat by just 1º. That’s all it takes to cut down up to 10% off of your overall heating bill.

9) DON’T SIT IDLY BY