How to Live a Green and Healthy Life
Don't Buy Something Today
This first step runs counter to just about everything in human civilization:we are,
if nothing else,an acquisitive species,and getting things-food,shelter,
chie pet-seems to be hardwired into our circuitry.But green living isn't about products you buy,it's about products you don't buy.So just for one day,
step away from that chie pet,put your Visa card back in your wallet,
and don't buy Something that you probably don't need anyway.
Tune up Your Car
Anyone who goes out and buys a new hybrid car to prove how green they are is clearly missing the point-it's much greener to keep your old jalopy as long as practical,rather than encourageing the manufacture of new cars(even if they get 45 miles to the gallon).
Try Organic Food
Sure,it's a tiny bit more expensive,but it's worth it.Organic food not only is Healthyer for you because it has fewer pesticides and other chemical residue,it's also much Healthier for the planet.Just for today,buy an Organic apple.
Recycle One Thing
Recycling is mandatory in some places,but it's a good idea everywhere.Not only are forest being chopped down and mountains being leveled worldwide for raw material, but lsndfills are bursting at the seams with all the detritus of our fast-paced consumer lifestyle.Even if you just recycle one item——a soda can,a magazine,a plastic bottle ——you're helping to make a difference.
Turn Down Y our Thermostat
Whether you're reading this in winter or summer.chance are there's energy being used to control the temperature in your room.Try turning the Thermostat one direction or a nother,and you not only will save energy,
but you'll reap the savings of a lower energy bill.(And as long as you're up,
why not switch off alight or two?)
Change One Light Bulb
Can you Change the world by changing a light bulb?Maybe compact fluorescent lights or CFLs,are many times more efficient than regular incandescent bulbs,but they contain mercury——a hazardous material that's been linked to birth defects, brain damage and other conditions.Consider LED Light,which are safer than CFLs , more energy efficient,and will last many times longer.
Clean and Green
There are dozens of alternatives to household cleaning products that contain chlorine bleach,ammonia and other industrial chemicals.You can shop for green cleaners that contain few,if any,harmful ingredients,or you can easily make your own——and for a fraction of what you'd spend on commercial products.
Take a Walk
This is perharps one of the simplest and most pleasant ways to go green——just put one foot in front of the other.Whether you walk around the block,take the stairs at
work,or just drink in the scenery on a hike,you're helping to cut down on energy use while staying in shape .Plus,walking is agreat way to remind yourself of why we're all living greener these days——the world is a beautiful place,and we'd like to keep it that way.