Beginner's Guide to Going Green: 10 Easy Ideas

Going green has never been easier. With the green movement gaining momentum and green products widely available, everyone can find small ways to reduce their environmental impact. If you are feeling overwhelmed or think that going green is too much of a hassle, read through these going green tips to help you get started. Even if you choose just a couple tips to follow at first, you will be making a difference.

Nearly every store has reusable shopping bags you can buy for about a dollar a piece. These reusable shopping bags are shaped like brown paper bags and easily hold your groceries or other shopping items. By bringing your own bags to the grocery store, pharmacy, or even the mall you can become part of the solution to the massive amounts of litter created by plastic bags. Store the bags in your car so they will always be ready for your next shopping trip.

Don't be afraid to switch to compact florescent light bulbs; the soft light and silence of modern CFLs are indistinguishable from standard incandescent light bulbs. CFLs are available to fit most light fixtures, including dimmers. CFLs that are Energy Star certified last 10 times longer and use 75% less energy than standard bulbs. Recycle CFLs properly, as they include a small amount of mercury.

Don't go on an errand run unless you really have to. Combining errand and shopping trips saves gas as well as time and money. Make a list of things you need to do on errand day and plan the quickest route to the places you'll go. Can you run your errands by taking the bus or riding your bike?

Cut down on excessive packaging by purchasing bulk goods from a natural foods or warehouse store. Don't buy individually wrapped servings of foods you eat regularly, instead buy a bulk amount and package your serving in a reusable container.

In contrast to the many commercials that insist you need powerful synthetic chemicals to clean your home, using the powers of natural cleaning agents leaves your home truly clean in a safe and natural way. Natural cleaning products harness the power of plant-based surfactants and non-toxic stain removers and deodorizers. Several brands of natural cleaners can be found at most large stores, including BioKleen and Seventh Generation. You can find a wealth of information online on using simple ingredients like baking soda, lemon, hydrogen peroxide and vinegar to clean your home. Start your research by going to www.vinegartips.com.