Helpful and Easy Hints for Daily Green Living

Almost daily we are reminded by the media of the problem of pollution – caused by mankind – and the direct consequence thereof, global warming. Many of you may feel obligated to do something but you may not know what to do or where to start. People are prone to think that if they can’t do something major they may as well do nothing, but there are many small behavioural changes which collectively are powerful. Here are some ways in which you can help out.

1. When feasible, work on a laptop rather than a desktop computer Virtually all people use computers today for a number of reasons. Since laptops are fifty percent more energy efficient, always look to use a laptop instead of a standard desktop computer. And, if you need reminding, laptops are more inexpensive, and you can have it with you wherever work takes you.

2. Don’t drive, try walking instead One of the first things that pops into mind when the topic of pollution is brought up is vehicle. Cars are big polluters because they burn fuel, causing deadly gases to be released into the air. Think of the great number of vehicles in use around the world every day, and you’ll start to understand the extent of the problem. If we all try to walk rather than drive a car just once every day, we’d effect a sizable change for the better. Try walking whenever it’s possible, but don’t beat yourself up if it isn’t practical to do so. If you need to go to the local stores walk instead of getting the car out. Walking can help you relax, good for your health as well as that of the earth, and save you some money to boot.

3. When you are brushing your teeth, shut the faucet We use water in almost everything we do, from cleaning to washing to keeping radiators warm so it’s no wonder so much of it is wasted daily. When you brush your teeth you should turn the faucet off, otherwise you’ll be wasting a lot of water. Imagine of the amount of water down the drain if you brush your teeth for two minutes with the tap on. Instead put some water for rinsing your mouth in a glass beforehand, thereby wasting less.

4. Showering uses less water Take a quick shower instead of a bath, because it’s been found to be more efficient in terms of both water and power consumption. Nonetheless, this doesn’t apply if you’re showering for more than twenty minutes! Make sure you shower quickly or else you won’t be saving water!

5. Don’t leave lights turned on at all times If you are not going to be back in a room for more than 5 minutes, try not to leave the light on. If there’s no one in it, a room may as well be dark. Doing this is not just advantageous to the environment, but also to your wallet. And turn the lights off when the sun is bright outside; you should have enough natural light inside.

Following these quick tips won’t leave you wth holes in your pockets. As a matter of fact, they’ll probably save you money. Come on then, don’t delay – the earth needs you!

Jacky Duurlo has been in the field of Energiebesparing for a long time and maintains a website about Duurzame Materialen where you can get answers to the rest of your questions.