10 Creative Ways to Green Your Lifestyle
Start today!
Courtesy of GreenDeals.org.
10. Family’s Lunches
Opt for reusable snack bags and sandwich wraps instead of tinfoil or saran wrap. Earth Swag and Eco Ditty are two green businesses that make our favorite. Adopt using stainless steel bento boxes, like one made from ECO Lunch Box. These are some easy ways to reduce trash and potentially hazardous plastic from your daily lunch and when it comes to your drink, be sure to recycle your beverage container or better yet, use a reusable filtered water bottle like those offered from Hydros Bottle.
9. Mobile Phone
From carbon footprint measuring apps to locating the nearest recycling station, your phone is one of the most convenient tools that can help you live green. Here are 10 great apps to consider downloading to your phone. Also, by choosing a cell phone provider like Credo Mobile, you can put your money where your mouth is. Credo Mobile is America’s greenest and most eco-friendly mobile phone company. They’ve donated over $10 million to environmental organizations, and they back up their donations with millions of activists fighting for a greener America.
8. Electronics
A simple “smart” surge protector, like one from Zuni Digital, can eliminate wasted “phantom” power that devices use even when they’re not turned on. A smart surge protector has different types of outlets—constant outlets for devices that always need power, like a land-line phone, and controlled outlets for those that should be completely shut off when not in use, like a lamp or phone charger.
7. Kids' Activities
We love the monthly eco-friendly craft kits that arrive on your doorstep from Green Kid Crafts. There are plenty of activities to keep little ones busy while teaching them about being good stewards of the planet. You can also find some fantastic natural paints and nature-inspired activities online.
6. Cleaning Routine
Do the research and be sure to buy a trusted natural cleaner like those from Seventh Generation or Ecover. There are also great cleaning solution recipes you can make very inexpensively yourself. Here’s a list of our favorites for every room in your home: http://blog.greendeals.org/go-green/natural-spring-cleaning-ideas-use-anytime/
5. Health & Beauty Products
Health and beauty products are one of the worst offenders when it comes to toxins, potential carcinogens, and all around bad stuff. The natural versions of facial cleanser, moisturizers, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner may cost more, but it’s definitely worth the investment. These are creams and scrubs we’re rubbing into our skin, our body’s largest organ, several times a day. Make the switch now if you haven’t already.
4. Grocery Shopping
We all know to use reusable shopping bags (just say “no” to plastic!) and shop organic especially when it comes to the “dirty dozen” in the produce section. But additional efforts like shopping from bulk bins (while using reusable produce bags, of course) and buying Fair Trade Certified items when possible will round out the green shopping experience.
3. Parties
Hosting a party can lead to loads and loads of trash bags. To avoid this, set out clearly marked recycle bins, compost bins, and trash receptacles for those items that can’t be recycled or composted. Also, make the extra effort to use cloth tablecloths and reusable silverware and dishes.
2. Outdoor Space
Even if your outdoor space is limited, vertical gardening can allow for beautiful flowers and fragrant herbs. A rain barrel is a great way to collect and store rainwater and can help your plants thrive. And if you haven’t already started composting, we recommend doing so. You’ll reduce waste and have your own nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden.
1. Transportation
From electric cars to hybrids to buses and bicycles, there are plenty of ways to get around town in a more eco-friendly manner. But don’t forget to hold fast to your values when you travel, too. Rent hybrid cars, take public transportation, or walk for the best view of the city. There’s even an eco-friendly roadside assistance program for bikers and drivers. Check out Better World Club for membership rates.
