Years ago, it seemed like going green was just a trend. But the movement has now grown into a eco-conscious lifestyle that many people are choosing. The idea goes beyond tree-hugging—this way of life encompasses all things healthy and pure. If you’re ready to take your healthy lifestyle to the next level, try these simple green ideas on for size.
- Choose natural products. You probably closely monitor what you put into your body, but what you have on or around your body is just as important. You skin can absorb more than 60 percent of the chemicals placed on it. Fortunately, there’s a slew of all-natural and organic products from laundry detergent to skin care lines that can keep you healthy. Avalon Organics, for instance, makes organic skin and hair care products with natural ingredients. Its NSF-certified organic lines cut out harmful chemicals such as synthetic fragrances, phthalates and parabens, so you can stay healthy and beautiful.
- Walk more. One of the biggest contributors to climate change is vehicle emissions. You can drastically limit your carbon footprint if you cut down your drive time. Try to walk or bike wherever possible, whether it’s to the park down the street or the grocery store a few blocks away. If you have to drive, try to carpool with someone or take public transportation. Both options are more eco-friendly than guzzling gas in your own car. Plus, walking is better for your health and your wallet!
- Recycle. There’s no need to throw all your used junk in the trash. Many of the things that make it to landfills could have been recycled and given new life. Just set up a blue recycling bin by your trash can and start separating out recyclables, such as aluminum or glass, from the actual trash. Even large electronics such as TVs and computers can be recycled. Try this handy search tool to figure out the recycling options near you.
- Use a reusable water bottle. Approximately 50 billion water bottles are used in America each year. While it’s concerning that only 23 percent of the plastic containers are recycled, even more shocking is the fact that more than 17 million barrels of oil are used to make water bottles annually. That’s enough to fuel 1.3 million vehicles for a year! If you’re still buying plastic water bottles it’s time to stop. A reusable bottle can be very affordable and can be used time and time again. If you just can’t stand the idea of drinking tap water, a water filter can ensure your drinking water is pure.
- Buy green energy. This one may seem pretty obvious, but if you’re looking to minimize your carbon footprint, cutting out the use of dirty electricity is the smart way to go. It’s actually pretty easy to purchase energy generated from the sun or wind. You could purchase renewable energy credits, your utility may have a program that allows you to contribute to clean energy generation or, in some states, you can actually purchase a 100 percent green energy supply for your home.
- Buy local. Although you can find plenty of organic labels at the grocery store, most of the produce you’ll come upon isn’t all that fresh. It’s often shipped across the country—or the world—before it lands on the shelf. If you want fresh-from-the-farm produce, head to your local farmers market. These markets sell fresh produce and other artisanal goods from local farms or producers. Better still, shopping at a local market eliminates carbon-intensive transportation, keeping you green.
Content courtesy of SaveOnEnergy.com.