What small steps have you taken to go green?
ourblogcabin on 30 Jul 2008 | Uncategorized
No matter where you turn these days, the world is “going green”. It’s amazing how quickly this trend has spread. Thankfully, this trend is actually something to be excited about. Who knew saving the environment and using the earth’s resources in a more responsible way could be so fulfilling? When I think back to a year ago, the green movement was in the news, but it seems in recent months to have really taken off. Here, at ourblogcabin.com, we wanted to take your wisdom and share it with all of our visitors. Sometimes “going green” sounds intimidating, but in actuality, if all of us take a few small steps we can really make an impact on saving the earth. I hope by reading these ideas, you can incorporate a few more ways to be “green” into your everyday lifestyle. It’s really easier than you would think as you will read below.
Kim on 01 Aug 2008 at 2:16 pm #
Recently at work we have gone “green” and that really has made me more aware of how important recycling can be. I am lucky to have recycling service at home and now I have become diligent in separating out the paper, plastic and aluminum. Once you make it a habit, it’s easy to follow.
I also have started unplugging electronics and appliances when they are not in use and moving the thermostat up a few degrees in the summer when I’m not home.
Cindy on 01 Aug 2008 at 2:20 pm #
- Carpooling to work some of the days in the week.
Maggie on 05 Aug 2008 at 1:28 pm #
I stopped buying plastic bottles of water and now carry a reusable one everyday instead.
Mike on 15 Aug 2008 at 1:46 pm #
I’ve been car pooling to work. Saves money and less pollution.
Amber on 19 Aug 2008 at 9:47 am #
I’ve started separating out my paper, glass, and plastics and take them to the local recycling center once a week.
Maggie on 19 Aug 2008 at 9:47 am #
I try not to use water bottles as much anymore and I we are finally recycling paper anc aluminum at work.
Rich Cunningham on 19 Aug 2008 at 10:18 am #
I have been reading some solid ideas by fellow bloggers. I choose to ride my bicycle to work instead of swerving my car. Get some exercise out of the way first thing.
Rich Cunningham on 19 Aug 2008 at 10:19 am #
I have gone a step further in riding my bike to work. Let’s just say the Olympics have jumpstarted my day.
Jon Ernst on 19 Aug 2008 at 10:25 am #
Recently I have started to recycle my bottles and cans. Also carpooling with my beautiful wife.
Melissa on 19 Aug 2008 at 11:16 am #
I’ve been making small steps to take my Daily Newspaper to work to put it in the recycling bin, and carpooling a couple times a week. Go “Green!”
Karen on 19 Aug 2008 at 12:41 pm #
I did buy four of those cloth grocery bags to cut down on the use of plastic bags. They are very handy but I forget to put them back in the car half of the time. I am confident that I will eventually get in the habit.
Veronica on 20 Aug 2008 at 4:31 am #
During my 100 mile round-trip commute to work, I use cruise control, accelerate more slowly and if necessary, run through stop lights so I can save gas!
L. Foster on 20 Aug 2008 at 9:25 am #
I was amazed at how much recyclable materials we were able to put in the new recycle bin the County provided.
Patty on 20 Aug 2008 at 7:08 pm #
I use the re-usable grocery bags! I love them! They are much easier to handle than the plastic or paper ones AND they are ecologically correct!
Rich on 20 Aug 2008 at 7:48 pm #
I bought a bio diesel car, we recycle glass, plastic, paper and tin. We have gone to CFL lightbulbs in our house.
anne on 21 Aug 2008 at 12:34 pm #
We are really in to recycling. We seperate all our glass, paper, cardboard, tin, aluminum. We have recently landscaped our yard. We did a lot of research to find out about the plants that were native to our area. Because of that extra time we put in before we planted has allowed us more time and $.
Andrea on 21 Aug 2008 at 2:14 pm #
We got our own blue bin and pick-up service for recycling right at our house – it has encouraged us to take a few extra seconds when sorting through our trash and surprisingly we fill the blue bin more than our own trashcan! And biking as often as we can – gotta love that!
Debbie on 21 Aug 2008 at 7:28 pm #
I use my own grocery bags; I recycle; I use my own water bottle; I buy “green” products.
P. Sue on 21 Aug 2008 at 9:48 pm #
I recycle as much as I can. I usually have more to recycle than trash! I wash my plastic cups too and use them until they start to crack.
Lala on 23 Aug 2008 at 7:03 am #
I live in a rural area and we don’t have recyling services but I bought the cloth bags to use at the grocery store and they are much easier to handle just like Patty said. We changed all of our lightbulbs in our house to CFL about 6 months ago.
Chanda on 23 Aug 2008 at 9:29 am #
I recycle at home and carpool to work as much as possible.
Michael on 23 Aug 2008 at 9:33 am #
We installed programmable thermostats to adjust the temperature throughout the day. By planning out a typical week we were able to determine when each level of the house needed to be cooled. Also we did some research and discovered that it is good to raise the temperature while gone, but not by more than 10 degrees because you can expend more energy re-cooling down. Has anyone heard this before?
Jessica on 26 Aug 2008 at 9:17 pm #
I have recently been walking everywhere I can, while recycling has become a habit.
BERNIE on 27 Aug 2008 at 8:11 am #
I have been a recycler, when recycling wasn’t “cool”! Recently I had one of my other employers start recycling. I am proud to say that we have recycled enough to drop our garbage pickup to once a month. We used to have a dumpster full each week!
Hailey Kasper on 27 Aug 2008 at 9:18 am #
For quite a while, we have recycled cans and glass bottles, but now we found a place to take our plastic and paper (The city doesn’t pick them up.) Since I can not afford to buy an eco friendly car, I have started planning my work week out so that I only make one trip to a certain area per week. (Longer work days, but I save lots on gas!)
I WOULD ALSO LOVE TO GET A RECYCLING PROGRAM GOING FOR HDA. ANYONE WHO AGREES, PLEASE MAKE IT KNOWN!!
Sara Davis on 27 Aug 2008 at 9:31 am #
We have been recycling cans, glass, plastic and newspaper for years. We have also replaced some light bulbs.
michelle castaneda on 27 Aug 2008 at 9:31 am #
I have changed all of our lightbulbs to energy saving bulbs and I recycle every day, every week. I reuse water bottles to mix koolaide for the kids and I reuse glass jars as storage for leftovers and dried goods.
Richard Anderson on 27 Aug 2008 at 10:40 am #
We have recycled plastic, glass and paper for years. We recently purchased all energy saver appliances.
Melodie Lee on 27 Aug 2008 at 11:15 am #
I recycle all of my paper, plastic, glass and steel cans. I have also changed my lightbulbs to the new CLF ones. I grow a garden each year and I use organic matter in my garden. I also compost for my garden. You wouldn’t believe all the vegetables I produce from using organic matter. When I go to work, I take my own homemade tea in refillable bottles so I won’t be buying sodas out of machines.
Tammy Meyers on 27 Aug 2008 at 11:18 am #
I have switched all my lightbulbs to low wattage money saving flourescents.We also have the kids ride their bikes to friends houses inside of driving them. Small changes in your thinking really helps out..Go Green!
Sue Christensen on 27 Aug 2008 at 12:02 pm #
I have recycled for years, but have just now changed all the light bulbs in my home. I have been keeping my driving down to a minimum. I reuse plastic zip lock bags by washing them thoroughly.
Mary on 27 Aug 2008 at 12:04 pm #
I’ve been recycling for years now…I have a system in place where I sort out plastic by color, glass by color, paper, and aluminum. We’ve begun to change over to the new light bulbs as the old ones burn out, and the programmable thermostat that was installed a year ago has cut the gas bill dramatically. If no one is in a room, the lights are turned OFF. The same goes for the TV. My jobs, not only for my current employer, but for other places are planned out to save gas, and I only make a trip to the recycling center every other week. The plastic bags, I take to WalMart. I refill my water bottles, and some I freeze. Some I use to make tea. I will use glass jars for grease drippings, and other odds and ends, too.
Cynthia L. Matthews on 27 Aug 2008 at 12:27 pm #
I live in a small rural area and we do not have recycle pickup or places to take them. We do recycle our soda cans though. We also just changed all our lightbulbs to the energy saving ones. Also just bought the new HE washer and dryer. The washer uses alot less water and detergent..
Barbara Pawlowski on 27 Aug 2008 at 1:11 pm #
All of our appliances are energy efficient. We have always recycled glass, paper and aluminum. I reuse grocery bags as garbage bags around by house or my kids use them as lunch bags. When they pack their lunches, we pack them in containers they bring home and I wash them and reuse them. We have changed most of our lightbulbs to the energy efficient ones. Even though they are more expensive initially, they save money in the long run.
cassandra swaney on 27 Aug 2008 at 2:24 pm #
i have always been in the habit of reusing my grocery bags and staying away from water bottles. recently i started buying organic biodegradeable baby wipes for my daughter and concentrated laundry soaps along with organic clothing.
Carolyn Roark on 27 Aug 2008 at 2:41 pm #
I have changed my lightbulbs to the low watt bulbs and now recycle through the county and also donate clothing and items to our local veterans association monthly.
Wendy on 27 Aug 2008 at 2:43 pm #
We began to walk more places and have be very conscience of our recyling. We have energy efficient appliances and changed our lightbulbs.
Matthew J. Mroz on 27 Aug 2008 at 2:51 pm #
I’ve started to take my bicycle more places. Driving my car is a hazard to the environment and I try and ride my bike to as many places as I possibly can. I even ride my bike to one of the stores that I service that is about a mile and a half away from my house. Not only does this save me money but it saves the environment too.
LeaAnn Graham on 27 Aug 2008 at 2:52 pm #
We reuse paper through the printer.
If the paper is clean on one side and the page to be printed is not an official document, the paper is reused.
Trisha Thompson on 27 Aug 2008 at 2:57 pm #
I planted my garden using all drought tolerant plants, therefore not having to water as often and saving water.
Conni on 27 Aug 2008 at 3:03 pm #
We have recycled for years. We have several of the new energy light bulbs and are continueing to change them out. I take my own bage to the grocery store and often tell other stores that I don’t need a bag. I do recycle the plastic bags also at the grocery store.
Kim Tompkins-Coit on 27 Aug 2008 at 3:19 pm #
I have started using the energy-efficient light bulbs in almost every room of my 5-bedroom house,also have a new he washer and dryer, and no longer buy bottled water, we have always used grocery bags for trash bags.
Dawn Mosteller on 27 Aug 2008 at 3:30 pm #
My husband has built two compost bins behind our garden. We have a container in the house in which we place all our “natural” stuff, instead of throwing it in the regular trash (coffee grounds with a natural recyclable coffee filter, banana peels, vegetable peels, etc). I bought some of the recycled grocery bags that you now see at various stores (they are made from some kind of strong material & have plastic on the bottom for durability & strength). They are 100% recycled & I bring these whenever I shop & use them over & over. They are actually stronger & hold much more than those flimsy plastic bags. I keep some in each vehicle so I always have them on hand. My husband also got started in vermiculture (worms). He made a small wood bin for them, got some dirt to start off, and bought some worms. He places our shredded mail in there for them to eat, along with some household scraps (vegetable peels, etc). So, my paper gets recycled through worms, and their castings are used in our garden as dirt/fertilizer. We also use “grey” water to water outdoor plants.
Julie Simrock on 27 Aug 2008 at 3:38 pm #
I try to go green by carpooling the kids to school and activities. Also, when they can, I have the kids ride their bikes to friends houses instead of driving them. It’s great exercise too! My family also takes advantage of the home recycling program in our city and recycles as much of our trash as possible. We also use refillable water bottles instead of those that are always thrown out. Every little bit counts!
Dianne Beebe on 27 Aug 2008 at 3:51 pm #
We separate and take our metal cans, plastic bottles, newspapers, cardboard, and motor oil to our local recycling center about once a month.
Jennifer Theyskens on 27 Aug 2008 at 3:56 pm #
We changed all of lightbulbs and bought energy efficient appliances. I also use powerstrips, so when things are not needed we don’t use the ghost enery. Yeah way to go. Being GREEN is the way to be….
Marilyn on 27 Aug 2008 at 3:59 pm #
Since I am driving numerous miles in my merchandising jobs, I purchased a small, Honda Fit. It gets great mileage – 34 plus miles per gallon. I am driving a bit slower on the interstate to conserve on gas. I have also installed an energy efficient heating and cooling system in my home which conserves energy and also gave me an income tax rebate!
Lydia W Williams on 27 Aug 2008 at 4:13 pm #
I water my plants with bath or dishwater,it not only saves water but it will keep pest off your plants.I also have began printing on both sides of my paper,I just x out the side that is no longer useful.I have found just by cutting off tv’s and lights when your out of the room has helped me with my power bill.
Ellen Christian on 27 Aug 2008 at 4:14 pm #
We just got a solar oven so that we can use the sun’s rays to cook our meals instead of using our propane stove. It works really well when we have sunny weather.
karol stiles on 27 Aug 2008 at 4:30 pm #
I think that we all are trying to do our part to go green and it is admirable. I was very surprised to find out that I would save energy by turning my computer off instead of letting it run non-stop. Not only is it wise to recycle your aluminum but profitable as well with the price of metals up. I had to buy a new car recently and made sure that I got one with excellent gas mileage even though I could not afford a hybrid. If we all do a little it will add up. Thanks to everyone for trying.
Grace Menezes on 27 Aug 2008 at 4:34 pm #
I have taken active part in all our activities in going green..First of all I have grown organic fruits and vegetable in my backyard as well as have planted lots of trees. I have replaced all my light bulbs to low waltage money saving flourescent. I walk my kids to school instead of driving. Have purchased all energy saving appliance.
kris horne on 27 Aug 2008 at 4:39 pm #
I have been recyle even before everyone became green. It has always been important to me. I also bought the reuse grocery bags. We did change all our light bulbs to energy effcient and the next time we replace our appliance it will be the same. I don’t drink bottle water and use water out of my faucet in a plastic bottle I bought. I am also trying to teach my children the importance of being green, so they will make it important to them when they get older.
Grace Menezes on 27 Aug 2008 at 4:42 pm #
My kids have started using reusable containers for their lunch. Recycle of garbage plays an important part in our life. We have cultivated lots of herbs, fruits and vegetables in our yard. We use bamboo screen on windows instead of vinyl or plastic.
Deborah Hackbarth on 27 Aug 2008 at 4:57 pm #
I reduced my newspaper service from daily to three days a week because I read online the news.
John Cammarota on 27 Aug 2008 at 5:16 pm #
There are many steps witch I have take to go green and here are a few.One of my major step would have to be recycling everything I use and buying only Recyclable products.I have also started a car pool with my fellow employees and conserve energy. I have even planted more trees to help us all out!These are a few things I have done to help are planet out. What have you done!
Carol G. HDA on 27 Aug 2008 at 5:20 pm #
We have been re-using plastic bags for garbage can liners. re-use water bottles. We do not have the heat or the air cond. on, unless absolutely necessary. We let the afternoon breeze cool the
house evening through morning,then shut all windows and shades to hold in the coolness until afternoon again. In the winter we spare the Nat. gas and use wood from fallen trees in the forest. This cleans up the forest floor and cuts way down on the nat gas use. We catch cold water for watering plants while it warms up to wash with.
#12, Necessary? it’s red if you run a stop light and hurt someone.
Donna Del Giudice on 27 Aug 2008 at 5:30 pm #
I traded in my SUV for a fuel efficient 4-cylinder.
Sophie Phillips on 27 Aug 2008 at 5:52 pm #
I try to keep my lights off as often as possable. Being on a limited income proves a chalenge. Baking soda ang peroxide for tooth paste it dosent taste the best but it’s actually better for you than regular tooth paste. I also try to make sure if an applience is not in use it’s unpluged. I will walk to the corner store insted of driving. even though it’s not alot every little bit helps.
John L. Horne on 27 Aug 2008 at 6:11 pm #
My wife and I have recently started to recycle more and it has now become a habit through-out the entire household, our 4 yr old will even put plastic in the recycle bin. Our town does not push recycling that much and we hope to try and get that changed pretty soon.
Angel Guilloz on 27 Aug 2008 at 6:14 pm #
Our neighbor teens have started a recycle service for all of our development. They money that they make from recycling is being used to purchase food and supplies for one of our local animal shelters. They pick it up once a week and deliver it all at the same time (~one trip for 50 homes~) This has encouraged a lot of us to start recycling again and we are helping save the environment and the animals!
Kristina Horne on 27 Aug 2008 at 6:14 pm #
My husband and I recently went on a trip to visit family in Colorado and noticed that very few people were carrying around plastic water bottles, but they were carrying reusable water bottles. Since then we have adopted that practice in our home to reduce the waist of buying water bottles
Cary Anderson on 27 Aug 2008 at 6:18 pm #
For Centuries the earth has been taking a beaten by the imperfections that man has, because of it’s not knowing the long term effects of what many things cause as technology has developed we have uncovered more and more how man has destroyed the earth. As was once said,”Every action has an exact and opposite reaction.”"What goes up must come down.” I put my faith in God, reading his word every day, because he is the only one who has no end.I try to follow bible principles in my life and that is how I “go green”. There isn’t anyone like the creator of all things, because on top of him never dying, he knows everything intimately in its perfect form and he is able to undo the calamaties brought about on the earth.I excersize my faith in him by using the guidance he gives us through the scriptures.
p jones on 27 Aug 2008 at 6:49 pm #
I think this is more important than most realize I wish more people would take the effort and recycle and be more consinious
Tara Vick on 27 Aug 2008 at 7:27 pm #
I have been collecting shower water-as it warms up and as I shower. I use the water to water my flowers and vegetables. We are in a drought in GA and no other water is not to be used for this-this has really helped!
I also use the re-useable grocery bags.
Donna Piecko on 27 Aug 2008 at 7:38 pm #
We just started recycling everything we can since moving into our new house.
We have changed most of our lightbulbs to energy saving bulbs and are already seeing a savings on the electric bill.
I think one of the most important things is to teach our kids how to recycle and conserve energy.
Cindi Sherwood on 27 Aug 2008 at 7:56 pm #
We have been recycling for years and we just had a solar hot water heating system put in and that has saved us on our electric bills. When we buy appliances, they are energy star products. Our most recent purchase was our HE washer and dryer set…
Jami Theillon on 27 Aug 2008 at 8:32 pm #
I’ve stopped by bottled water and now use the machine that fills bottles with Spring Water at the grocery store. We now use the same 3 gallon jugs for water, instead of all those little bottles. I’ve replaced 15 of my 24 lightbulbs with CFL’s. I purchased green bags from my grocery store, so I know longer come home from the store with 10 plastic bags. My next step is composting.
Holly Epstein on 27 Aug 2008 at 8:58 pm #
I have been using the reusable cloth bags for grocery shopping and recycling everything I can.
geo on 27 Aug 2008 at 9:28 pm #
I would love to live in one of those houses
geo on 27 Aug 2008 at 9:29 pm #
I recycle all my newspapers
Marion on 27 Aug 2008 at 9:34 pm #
I have been going a step further and recycling inkjet cartridges, batteries.
Mark Zirpoli on 27 Aug 2008 at 9:39 pm #
We have started recycling paper, cardboard, and aluminum cans. We have changed the majority of our light bulbs to the energy saving flourescent bulbs. We have also installed toilets that use 1.6 gallons of water per flush. We also purchased a front loading washing machine which uses a lot less water than a top loader. Clothes come out just as clean. These two water saving items have greatly reduced our water usage and our water bill.
Judy Irby on 27 Aug 2008 at 10:25 pm #
I am using the energy efficient light bulbs all around the house. I have cut down the temperature on my hot water heater and I have turned the thermostat on my air conditioner to 80. I open the windows and use fans. I plan and cook easier meals so as not to have my oven on for long periods of time. I also cook two or three meals at once to save time and energy. I am planning a garden next year and I will be composting.
Deb Morrison on 28 Aug 2008 at 6:43 am #
We now carry our own grocery bags TO and FROM every store. No more paper or plastic for us!
Nicole Brackett on 28 Aug 2008 at 7:27 am #
We recycle everything we can and we reuse the plastic shopping bags. We also have changed out most of the light bulbs for the energy saving ones. We ride our bikes to school, saves on gas and it’s good exercise!!
Vicki L Lee on 28 Aug 2008 at 7:45 am #
My husband set up several rain barrels for me to use surrounding the house. The rain water is diverted from the spouting into the barrels. He attached spigots and hoses and gravity does the rest.
Denise Meissner on 28 Aug 2008 at 8:14 am #
My thermostat for the air conditioner is set at 78 in the summer and 68 in the winter. We recycle bottles, cans, newspaper, but have started recycling the junk mail instead of throwing it in the trash.
Heidi on 28 Aug 2008 at 8:43 am #
My dad instilled recycling in me long ago. Even though it drives my husband nuts, we are still recycling. I also use the reusable grocery sacks. In addition, I have cut down on gas by staying home more and consolidating my trips to town. Next… prying the water bottles out of my husbands hand! I plan to get him reusable bottles and stop buying bottled water.
Julie Oudbier on 28 Aug 2008 at 9:37 am #
I am using cloth diapers versus disposable when my grandchildren visit. This not only saves money for myself and my daughter, but saves the landfills.
Kathy Yates on 28 Aug 2008 at 10:10 am #
We have recently stop buying the cases of water and replaced it with the 5 gallon water container. This saves money and space in the landfills. We now take the 5 gallon bottle to a water refill station located 1/2 mile from our home and then fill personal water bottles to take with us.
Shannon on 28 Aug 2008 at 10:11 am #
We run as little water during the day as possible to conserve its resource
Donna Kay Roberts on 28 Aug 2008 at 12:09 pm #
I have started seperating everything into trash can and have been recyling evverything possible
Brenda Wagoner on 28 Aug 2008 at 12:44 pm #
We have stopped buying plastic bottles of water and started filling a five gal. container at a local water store and started filling our own thermos from it. We also are driving slower on the interstate and check our tires regularly for pressure. It does make a difference!
Lynn M Smith on 28 Aug 2008 at 12:56 pm #
We purchased a wood burning furnace so we can use less propane. The wood burning furnace attaches to our regular home furnace but heats with wood instead of propane. We also have a tankless water heater, which uses less electricity because it never heats a 40 gallon tank of water. I sold my big AWD van and replaced it with a smaller car.
Jim Scott on 28 Aug 2008 at 12:57 pm #
Phasing in additional fluorescent lighting as well as sorting trash for recycling and using recycled product where possible.
Debra Maas on 28 Aug 2008 at 1:26 pm #
I started using the energy saving bulbs when they first came out. I use cloth bags for groceries and other items as well. We are all bike riders. Of course, its easy to be a bike rider in the summer in the midwest. I’m not so sure about January though.
Debbie Martens on 28 Aug 2008 at 2:34 pm #
We have changed all of our lightbulbs. I put our food scrapes in our garden to decompost. We also recycle all of our cardboard, aluminum, glass, paper and magazines.
Debbie Martens on 28 Aug 2008 at 2:37 pm #
We have changed out all of our lightbulbs and compost our food peelings.
Debbie Martens on 28 Aug 2008 at 2:40 pm #
We have changed out our lightbulbs and recycle our newspapers and cardboard.
Debbie Martens on 28 Aug 2008 at 2:42 pm #
We have changed our lightsbulbs and recycle newspapers, cardboard, plastic, glass and aluminum.
Alissa Mitchell on 28 Aug 2008 at 2:42 pm #
We are trying to recycle as much stuff as possible at home, as well as not using plastic bags from the grocery store but using the reuseable bags that you purchse.
CATIE WILLIAMS on 28 Aug 2008 at 2:53 pm #
Some of the steps I’ve taken to go green are as follows: I do my best to remember to use the “go green” shopping bags you can purchase at each store now, to load my groceries, etc. in at each respective store.
I’ve recently purchased a smaller, 4-cylinder car, which is easier on the gas; and I now go the speed limit.
I use the dishwasher less, and do laundry one day a week-larger loads, yet use less water.
We have only had the ac in the house on one week all summer, don’t use it in the cars, and use a woodburning stove in the winter.
I have always recycled where possible.
Connie Farinha on 28 Aug 2008 at 2:54 pm #
I have been reusing water bottles for a long time now, and also bring my recyclables to the recycle center. Since the gas crunch I have been driving less which has been working well so I can get more done at home and I have just purchased the reusable grocery bags. We also use the energy effecient light bulbs.
Dan Greenleaf on 28 Aug 2008 at 3:35 pm #
We are working on a couple different passive solar projects to help heat the house. One is to install water tubes behind two large windows in one room to capture the heat from the sun during the day. Another area near a double sliding glass door, we will be painting the concrete slab floor dark to help with heat absorbtion during the day. We also hope to install a combination dead air space/greenhouse-like structure in the alcove at our main entrance. That will keep cold winter air from going directly into the house and hopefully capture heat to vent into the living space.
Susan McCaughey on 28 Aug 2008 at 4:01 pm #
I’ve been recycling paper, plastic and aluminum (soda and cat food cans) for years. No place to recycle glass here, though I have where I previously lived. I had double-paned windows installed in the main house to cut down on cooling/heating, put heat control window film on my home office windows, stopped buying plastic water bottles and installed a faucet filter, turned up a/c in summer, change air filters regularly, use cloth shopping bags, avoid driving on the weekends as I combine errands on the way home from work, unplugged an extra portable phone and clock radio, keep counter-top appliances unplugged when not in use, turn my computer off when not using, turn on only one lamp in the living room in the evenings, purchased a top-freezer Energy Star rated fridge, reuse bath towels more than once (but not washcloths), use newspaper with glass cleaner on windows and reuse scrap printer paper in the fax machine, just to name a few.
Helen A. Mallow on 28 Aug 2008 at 4:04 pm #
We have been sorting our garbage into recyclables for a few years now. We discovered it was cheaper to buy a garbage bag or two at the milling station for $3.00 each, than it was to have someone come and pick up our trash. We can burn all papers. And we seperate all recyclables and newspapers. We also shred all of our junk mail or important papers and take them to the scrap yard. My husband scraps metal from anythign before he throws it away. I use canvas bags for shopping instead of getting the plastic ones from the stores. We have replaced all bulbs in our house to flourescent ones. I even stopped using my dryer (of course it did break down) and hang everything out on the line. We have also bought a tankless water heater, and will be installing that soon. We usually stay home once we are done work for the day. Any extra trips out have stopped. If we didn’t get it while we were out it will wait til tomorrow.
Goldie Henderson on 28 Aug 2008 at 4:04 pm #
I have become obsessed with the green thing. I always bring reusable totes when shopping, bought a case of pigtail bulbs (energy saving) and replaced them in the entire house, always leave the water setting on cold when doing laundry, purchase large bottles of cleaners that i can refill the bottles i already have, never purchase vegies that come pre-packaged. I recently bought 6 little chicks (at 2.50 each what a bargain), built a coop out of scrap wood we had, and now waiting for them to mature in late fall for fresh eggs daily. I can feed the chickens wholesome scraps instead of throwing them away.
Donna Flanagan on 28 Aug 2008 at 4:56 pm #
First,We reuse fish wood boxes from Canada for our raised garden boxes. Secondly, we reuse our coffee grounds as a detterent against ants. We spread them out a long our concrete foundation in place of pestisides to gaurd agaianst ants.
Mary M on 28 Aug 2008 at 5:08 pm #
We had a heat pump installed at our home. We are now using just 60-75% of the power we were with our old furnace and AC.
Regina Mostad on 28 Aug 2008 at 5:12 pm #
We started recycling everything possible. We try to drive less, and when we do drive, we take the Honda instead of the truck. I try to cook at home as much as possible so that we don’t waste food (there’s only the 2 of us so things go bad pretty quick). We take old clothes and things to thrift and consignment stores instead of just throwing them out.
Alice Ford on 28 Aug 2008 at 5:15 pm #
I started a worm composing box in my basement. I put all my veggies and fruit garbage in the container . Over a three month times span the worms eat the garbage and leave a soil as the remains. I also can make a compost tea from the moisture left by the worms and fertilize my house plants.
Michael W. Tucker on 28 Aug 2008 at 5:57 pm #
We have start carpooling.
Megan Doyle on 28 Aug 2008 at 6:28 pm #
Recently we traded in our big gas guzzling pick up truck and got a more fuel efficient vehicle. We also burn some of our stuff in our backyard – only things safe for the enviroment – so we are throwing less stuff away and not filling up the landfills. I’m also reusing our 5 gallon water jugs, instead of purchasing new ones all the time.
Sheila Polt on 28 Aug 2008 at 6:42 pm #
Our family has been recycling paper which is dropped off at a local school. I shred anything with personal information. The school benefits because a local company pays them for what’s collected. We’ve also cancelled our newspaper subscription. We didn’t have time to read the paper and we could get the same news from the radio or internet.
We have also stopped buying beverages in plastic bottles. We buy soda in aluminum cans which our son collects and recycles. We have several bottles which are washed and reused.
We’ve gotten a couple cloth bags for bagging our groceries in. Each bag holds as much as three plastic bags. Thank you!
stacie shchouchkoff on 28 Aug 2008 at 6:44 pm #
My family and I have made a great effort to recycle, it is my 5 year olds chore to do the recycling and he consistently reminds all of us, including his grandparents, just how important it is to recycle. we have changed a few lightbulbs and are continuing to do more. I also have been walking more than driving.
kathy fowler on 28 Aug 2008 at 7:01 pm #
We are changing out lightbulbs in our home to CFLs as the old ones burn out. Reuse my water bottle from home. Do not drive over 55 mph on interstate. Turn off lights when we exit a room. Take my coffee from home…no more drive-thru throwaway cups.
Jackie Lowe on 28 Aug 2008 at 7:46 pm #
We bought a Hybrid car, we use canvas bags when we shop and we use energy efficient bulbs in the house. We also stopped using so many paper products since they just make more trash!
Kathleen Browne on 28 Aug 2008 at 8:31 pm #
I have replaced all me reg light bulbs with compact flor. And now drop off recyclable plastics bi weekly.
Steve Force on 28 Aug 2008 at 8:42 pm #
I’ve been more conscientious about recyclable benefits more than ever.
Like the saying goes, “I should have done this a long time ago.”
Jennifer Theyskens on 28 Aug 2008 at 9:33 pm #
We do our laundry at night. Water in the evening,and we recently purchased a Prius and still limit are driving.
Sarah Smith on 28 Aug 2008 at 10:21 pm #
I have 3 windows that face the west side. In the afternoon it gets hot on that side of the house. This summer we replaced the screens with uv protect ones. You can still see out. You could feel the differnce between the side of the window with the screen and the one with out. So much that we made a screen to fit the whole window. Its removeable for the winter. The electricity comes on half the time, so now we use less electricity.
Mary Bennett on 28 Aug 2008 at 11:16 pm #
We started using the new efficient light bulbs, and we refill our water bottles instead of throwing them away!
Jennifer West on 29 Aug 2008 at 8:14 am #
We utilize the schedule feature on our air conditioning unit to run less at times we are typically not home, and shut it off when we are gone for vacation. We purchased a pack of reusable/washable Magicloth (manmade chamois) to reduce use of paper towels.
Angela Huffman on 29 Aug 2008 at 11:28 am #
My family is making an extra effort to be more aware of the waste we create. We share one car, but it is a major gas hog! (looking into different car) We recycle plastics, aluminum, paper, etc. and reuse our plastic bottles. I did get some of the fabric bags, but it is taking me some time to remember to get them out of the back of the car before I enter the store
Also we recently remodeled our entire house with Zoe-E argon-filled windows, a 92% efficient furnace, energy-efficient bulbs, programmable thermostats, energy-efficient appliances, etc. I feel good about the effort we are making and the responsibility we are taking for the environment we live in.
Theresa Hood on 29 Aug 2008 at 1:26 pm #
I have limited the amount of plastic wrap and foil I use by covering leftovers in a glass bowl with a glass plate to store in the fridge. I also reuse the plastic bowls and lids I buy food in (like cottage cheese, yogurt, whip cream) so I don’t have to buy them resulting in less plastic production and waste.
Kim O on 29 Aug 2008 at 2:10 pm #
I have recently started using my fabric grocery bags again, I also my cruse on the truck much more than I did before. Using a filterating water piture system instead of buying bottled water.
laura wheat on 29 Aug 2008 at 3:07 pm #
We use energy efficient light bulbs.
josh wheat on 29 Aug 2008 at 3:10 pm #
We use energy efficient light bulbs and take fewer trips to buy groceries and shop.
Joyce Schwartz on 29 Aug 2008 at 4:12 pm #
I installed a water filtration system on my kitchen faucet, so I no longer buy bottled water.
Margie Gardner on 29 Aug 2008 at 4:57 pm #
We recycle our plastic and paper. We also use CFL lights. We turn our AC up 24/7, usually is set at 82 degrees. We put heat filtering film on our sliding door.
Sally Davis on 29 Aug 2008 at 6:14 pm #
I have been trying to plan my weekly erands so that I don’t waste gasoline running from place to place without a plan as I was accustom to doing. I do all of my shopping in one particular area of town one day and move on to another area the next.
TIM GLASSBURN on 29 Aug 2008 at 6:23 pm #
I don’t believe in Not using plastic bags, plastic containers, or metal cans, because this process would put people out of a job. However, we recycle almost everything!!! I also don’t use jackrabbit starts at the stop sign, but many people do which uses fuel for no reason – I usually end up at the next stop light next to them!!
lynn wolz on 29 Aug 2008 at 9:21 pm #
I bought a couple of those reuseable bags from Walmart and take those shopping with me now. Instead of getting another plastic bag of stuff, I bring it home in a bag I can use over and over.
Patricia Darley on 29 Aug 2008 at 10:27 pm #
Two years ago our dryer died a painful death. I insisted we get front load HE washer & dryer despite my husband’s objections. An appliance outlet store saved us a ton of money on the set, and immediately we saved $5 a month minimum on the water bill, and something similar in electricity. We’ve been switching to CFL’s as the incandescent burn out. The previous owner had the original CFL’s (think long tubes) and we still use some of them four and a half years after we moved in. I’ve started using canvas totes for shopping because I can get more in my bags than the plastic ones, and mine hold the weight of multiple heavy items. If I could convince my husband to have a green(as in plants) roof or solar roof panels, I would do it. This old house isn’t adequately insulated and Florida sun can be brutal to the thermo$tat.
Mark White on 30 Aug 2008 at 9:17 am #
We started recycling everything possible. We try to drive less, we take old clothes and to a consignment store. Started using the energy saving bulbs, ride my bike when ever possible Turn off lights when not in use. Save rain water in a plastic barrel for watering plants.
Alla on 30 Aug 2008 at 10:08 am #
we use low flow toilets in our house and I love a video how to place plants, got some ideas for my home
Cheryl Luttinen on 30 Aug 2008 at 11:10 am #
Great videos to view different kinds of floorplans if you are starting to build you own home. Thanks!
Shalaunda Pierce on 30 Aug 2008 at 11:33 am #
I have put my car keys down as much as possible. Instead of driving to my local grocery store, I walk.
Kathy Hall on 30 Aug 2008 at 10:37 pm #
Recycling water bottles. Changed light bulbs to energy efficient. Had natural gas company run a natural gas line to my house and use it for dryer, changed my hot water tank to a Rinnai which is run by natural gas. Converted my bbq’er to natural gas.
Julie Chaleff on 31 Aug 2008 at 4:33 am #
We recycle our paper and plastic,turn the thermostat up when we are gone during the day and are conscious about turning off lights when they are not needed.
Sharon Sietsma on 31 Aug 2008 at 7:59 am #
I have made a compost pile for my garden. I take all of the kitchen scraps I normally would throw in the garbage and I made a “heap” in my backyard. Not only do I generate less garbage to be put in a landfill, I get the reward of “black gold” for my gardens and plants, and I don’t have to drive anywhere to purchase fertilizer!
april Jester on 31 Aug 2008 at 12:34 pm #
I turn in all my 20 ounce and water bottles to Walmart for money and they recycle.
Gerianne Roland on 31 Aug 2008 at 7:12 pm #
#25 I agree. I get tremendous criticism from customers & employees watching me throw away expired HDA magazines instead of recycling them. I’ve been recycling & economizing since the “hippie days”. I have nothing left to cut back on or improve upon. So, recent food and energy price increases are impossible to battle.
Frank Hernandez on 31 Aug 2008 at 7:20 pm #
I’ve always had big pickup trucks, (3/4 tons to be exact). I still have a pickup but I went from a 3/4 ton to a 1/2 ton v-8 and have now gone to a 1/2 ton six. And I still get to enjoy my pickups.
Carolyn on 31 Aug 2008 at 7:49 pm #
We have been energy conscious and recycling for years and continue to incorporate new ways to “go green”. My most recent effort to “go green” has been to make my own cleaning products (i.e. vinegar, dish soap and water in place of window cleaner) and so far everything I have made and tried has worked really well. There are numerous books and lots of information via the internet on making your own cleaning products that are more environmentally friendly than those purchased at the store. They do not contain harsh chemicals and so far I have had really good luck with them. They are so easy to make, we have saved a lot of money and we are saving the environment.
Stephanie Morency on 01 Sep 2008 at 6:54 am #
I have been going green for the last 5 years.
One of the things I have started doing recently is buying in bulk from BJ’s warehouse to cut down on packaging waste.
It makes a huge impact on my recycling bins each month!
Celeste on 01 Sep 2008 at 9:47 am #
I carpool, recycle, and use reusable shopping bags.
Cheri Roadcap on 01 Sep 2008 at 10:34 am #
Recycling at our house is a “no brainer”. Our kids have done this since they were very little. We automatically, without thinking, sort our discardable items into the appropriate recycling bins for pick up. We pack all of our lunches daily into reusable containers. We buy in bulk to eliminate uneccesary packaging. We opt for one marathon day of running errands, shopping and doing something fun, instead of multiple trips to town, saving fuel and harmful emissions. We really think before we buy. Buying second hand whereever possible. We try to live simply so that there will be resources available for others to simply live in the future.
Jerry Wichael on 01 Sep 2008 at 10:38 am #
We have started to do more bikeing to the stores closest to us. Saves gass and keeps us in shape. This has turned out to be a great fun time for us.
Cathy Hammond on 01 Sep 2008 at 12:13 pm #
I have become very conscience of just how much electricity we waste at home. I have started hanging more clothes on the line than before and unplugging appliances, especially cell phone charges, when not in use.
Jen Ernst on 01 Sep 2008 at 1:26 pm #
I have gone to using wash cloths for my cleaning instead of using paper towels. My husband and I used to go through almost a roll per day, but now we have saved money and reduced our waste. A few people above have mentioned turning the thermostat down when they are gone. We do this as well and shut all the shades so added sunlight does not come in. This really helps too.
anna castello on 01 Sep 2008 at 4:50 pm #
We ride our bikes to school instead of driving twice a day back and forth. We use the “green” light bulbs and we recycle everyday.
rhoda moone on 01 Sep 2008 at 5:35 pm #
We have more recycle each week than we do trash. We cook larger meals and have left over on the grill for less useage inside. Less trips to the store try to do a list of where I have to go on my way home from work instead of making more trips.
veronica on 01 Sep 2008 at 7:50 pm #
For some time now I’ve been separating aluminum, plastic, glass and paper. Our food waste is also put in a special bin the city provided us with. I use a water bottle to drink water from our filtered water at home and we just ordered a Prius.
Since I sew, I’ve been re-purposing some of my old pants into skirts (my daughter’s as well) and I’ve been making dresses from fabric that has been donated to me. Since I also make costumes, I use the cardboard from bulk items to create accessories such as swords, shields, crowns, etc… T-shirts turn into rags in order to save trees and reduce more waste at the landfills. Instead of throwing away our old clothes we donate them to third world countries.
My husband brings home used printer paper so the kids can draw on the other side. We also use bits of crayons to melt the wax and make projects with the kids. We also use the library so we don’t waste money and reuse books.
There are so many other things that I could do, but just haven’t got around to doing it. One we were thinking about was purchasing solar panels, but boy are they pricey!
Veronica Yra on 01 Sep 2008 at 8:06 pm #
Oops, I almost forgot. We have energy star appliances and have changed 75% of our light bulb to CFL’s. We also try not to purchase juice or soda, but if we do we try not to purchase the ones in plastic containers. That’s it for now.
Paul C. Tonner on 01 Sep 2008 at 9:47 pm #
Where I live the city provides recycling benefits, I have updated to energy efficient appliances – big and small – it all adds up. I do not purchase bottled water any longer.
Brooke Doroha on 02 Sep 2008 at 6:41 am #
Prob. do not do enough like I should. I do recycle newspapers and plastic bottles and cans. I use a plastic reuseable water container. I have changed many of our light bulbs into eco friendly ones, and the cleaning products I use slowly changeing them to eco friendly as well…
lynn wolz on 02 Sep 2008 at 7:38 am #
We recycle all of our papers, newspapers etc. at the school recycle bin. We recycle, they get money for it and everyone benefits
Shelley Pelley on 02 Sep 2008 at 7:39 am #
I have used CFL light bulbs in all my household lights for a year now and have even switched to them in my office at work. Just recently I have started unplugging appliances at home and when I replaced my electric hot water heater I had a switch installed and I turn it on only when I need hot water (only takes about 10-15 minutes to heat up). I have recycled cans, magazines and newspapers for years and make scratch pads out of waste paper at work. I also run my A/C thermostat up at home when I’m not there. My mother and son are in on it too!
JANICE WILLIAMS on 02 Sep 2008 at 8:42 am #
We recycle cans by giving them to the local humane society for them to collect the money. we also recycle newspapers and, plastic bags, and plastic water bottles.
brian on 02 Sep 2008 at 9:10 am #
I use CFL’s in every room inside & out of our home. I use a mulcher mower & mow less often, maybe an electric in the futre.
Talexander on 02 Sep 2008 at 10:18 am #
Recyling cans, buying energy efficient appliances, eco friendly light bulbs, and not buying as many bottled waters – been using my Tupperware tumblers for on the go water bottles.
Susanne on 02 Sep 2008 at 12:50 pm #
I have recently added recycling to my trash pick up and recycle everyone’s plastic bottles used at work.
Jackie Majors on 02 Sep 2008 at 5:14 pm #
I recycle the window air conditioner water by filling the bird bath or watering outside plants.
Alyssa Lynn Cavazos on 02 Sep 2008 at 8:12 pm #
I have really been trying to use less paper towels and napkins by using rags. I know that i have to wash more but we have energy saving washer and dryer. I have also been walking more places and trying to make less trips to town. I get everything done in one trip!
Donna Kinkead on 02 Sep 2008 at 10:07 pm #
I am driving less.
Dennis Papper on 03 Sep 2008 at 4:12 am #
I have started using the energy-efficient light bulbs in every room of my house, and no longer buy bottled water, we have always used grocery bags for trash bags.
Kathy Boiardi on 03 Sep 2008 at 7:11 am #
My state has had mandatory recycling for about 20 years now, but my husband and I have taken this further. We collect cans from all our friends, family and neighbors. The ones that can be turned in for cash in a neighboring state get turned in for 5 cents a can. The others go to a metal recycling plant for about 2 to 3 cents a can. We then donate all the money to a local no-kill animal shelter. We have raised over $2,000 this year so far. It is a win for the environment and the animal shelter.
We have also changed over all the lightbulbs to energy efficient ones. As our appliances need replacing, we have replaced them with energy efficient appliances. I take old juice/milk cartons, rinse them out and fill them with water. I then keep them in my chest freezer to take up the extra space which makes it run more efficiently and I have blocks of ice whenever I need them.
Debra Hartley on 03 Sep 2008 at 2:31 pm #
This summer I started recycling my plastic along with the paper and aluminum. Also, we purchased a rain barrel to water the outside plants.
Vanessa Williams on 03 Sep 2008 at 3:20 pm #
I make sure all of our food waste goes in the garbage disposal. This cuts down on the amount of trash in the can, and the smell!
Jamie Robinson on 04 Sep 2008 at 8:31 am #
I ride my bike to work instead of driving, which saves me gas money, keeps me from supporting the rise in gas prices and does not pollute the atmosphere. I am also a member of the website Care2petition at http://www.thepetitionsite.com/ where I have the opportunity to sign hundreds of petitions regarding offshore drilling, animal rights, pollutants, etc.
Cindy Macomber on 04 Sep 2008 at 9:36 am #
First of all, I use several of the cloth bags when I go grocery shopping to save on all those plastic bags. I also refill my water bottles with gallon jugs instead of buying 24 packs of water bottles. And we use the energy efficient light bulbs now.
Jennifer Theyskens on 04 Sep 2008 at 10:49 am #
Hey what about riding your horse to the grocery store, if you have one. We do. I think that really is going green. also we refill our ink cartiridges. Saves on the waste.
Karen Taylor on 04 Sep 2008 at 2:13 pm #
I have changed my driving habits. Driving slower, coasting, when I can, keeping my tires inflated, idleing as little as possible I went from 30 mpg to 35 mpg, just by changing my drivng habits.
Gwen Clarke on 04 Sep 2008 at 2:55 pm #
We subscribe to a recycling service and recycle all of our newspapers, cans, plastics and cardboard. We also are in the process of switching to the energy efficient light bulbs.
Go Green!!!
Conni Burks on 04 Sep 2008 at 3:36 pm #
We started recycling 20 years ago. The city we lived in then had recycling at the curb (free)with the trash pick up. I think that is such a good away to get more people started. My kids are married now and they recycle too.
Jennifer Schlottmann on 04 Sep 2008 at 4:48 pm #
We always recycle; buy products that are eco friendly!! I agree with #25. My Michaels does recycle all thier paperproducts instead of in with the cardbord. I think its an A++! Reduce, Reuse, RECYCLE!
Matt John on 04 Sep 2008 at 9:00 pm #
I’m really interested in alternative methods of powering my house – solar, wind, batteries and the like. Does anyone have any sites they would like to share on this subject?
Debbie Scott on 05 Sep 2008 at 8:32 am #
Carpooling, reusing plastic bags for lunches, trash can liners, etc. Making sure I uses both sides of paper when im printing something.
connie Bellantone on 05 Sep 2008 at 4:07 pm #
we use cloth napkins for meals,I use a vinegar and water solution to clean glass, we recycle always, I also take my own bags to the grocery store
Angela Mann on 05 Sep 2008 at 6:32 pm #
I combine my errands so I am not on the road so frequently thus using less fuel. Also, I am not buying bottled water. Instead, I bought a water pitcher that filters water. I do paper instead of plastic at the grocery store. Going green is just a matter of developing new habits.
Lenette Alfirov on 06 Sep 2008 at 3:06 pm #
We, like others that have responded, have been composting and recycling for years. We do not have curbside pickup and accumulate quite a bit before hauling it off. I thought that I had been an energy saver all my adult life until I recently found out that that I have been wasting electricity by leaving small appliances and chargers plugged in when not in use and now I plug them in only when I use them. Almost all light bulbs have been changed over to CFL’s and I print on both sides of paper when I can and don’t print things that I do not really need. I have also stopped a lot of junk mail from coming into my home.
Holly Palm on 06 Sep 2008 at 6:01 pm #
Altered clothing helps with the clothes budget. The latex balloons we use are biodegradable. The mylar balloons we use for displays are deflated and reused instead of put in the landfill. Slow stops and starts for less gas consumption has really helped! Recycling is a daily habit.
Cherri on 07 Sep 2008 at 7:45 pm #
I save and recycle everything I can. I don’t have a recycle service so once a month I load up my car with paper, plastic, cans and cardboard and take them to the recycle center.
Donna Rome on 07 Sep 2008 at 10:53 pm #
I like to BE CREATIVE & look for ways to reuse everyday objects. LAUNDRY detergent JUGS make easy to fill & carry BUCKETS when you cut the tops off. NEWSPAPER works well for BLOCKING WEEDS and holding in moisture.You can clean and deodorize everything in your house with baking soda or vinegar.Rub CITRUS PEELINGS on your skin to repel bugs.Paperboard CEREAL BOXES are great for making PINATAS! JUNK PAPER and leftover CANDLE WAX loosely rolled in a cardboard tube makes an excellent FIRESTARTER. Paint the lids of large GLASS JARS and apply decals for a matching set of CANISTERS.Tin CANS make great cookie/ burger/ biscuit cutters-and rolling pins. Endless possibilities…
Dina T. Alexander on 08 Sep 2008 at 8:33 am #
Our family recycles newspapers and motor oil and bring them to the recycling center.
Sheila Slade Szelog on 08 Sep 2008 at 9:13 am #
I have purchased some of the reusable grocery bags and am starting to get in the habit of remembering to bring them. When I forget, I bring the plastic bags back to the store on the next visit and put them in their recyle bin. I have also lowered the water heater setting. We have been recycling paper plastic and aluminum for years. It is an easy lifestyle change and requires very little extra effort.
Kay on 08 Sep 2008 at 2:24 pm #
We use a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. Therefore, they avoid the standby heat losses associated with storage water heaters. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. In an electric Tankless Water Heater an electric element heats the water. In a gas-fired Tankless Water Heater a gas burner heats the water. As a result, Tankless Water Heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water.
Pam Jerome on 08 Sep 2008 at 6:47 pm #
We have been recycling newspapers for years at our childrens school. Which is great! because the schools get money for doing it. We have switch to CFL bulbs for our lights. We do not use paper towel, napkins, paper plates, plastic silverware ect. We purchase biodegradable detergent, soap and cleaning products. We tend not to purchanse anything that is strofoam.
We return all our plastic bags to the Kroger store to be recycled.
Sue Van Ewyk on 08 Sep 2008 at 10:44 pm #
We recycle our paper, plastic, etc. all the items our trash pick up will allow. I like to reuse many items. I very often will buy used furniture and paint it or refresh it in some way.
Deborah Bell on 10 Sep 2008 at 10:57 am #
We recycle everything possible including motor oil and return all our plastic bags to the store. We also have replaced our light bulbs with CFL bulbs.
Eve Neubauer on 10 Sep 2008 at 4:04 pm #
When my grandson and I clean out his kiddie pool, we use that water to water my flowers. He loves using the bucket or watering can.
Sue Christensen on 10 Sep 2008 at 4:15 pm #
I have started hanging out alot of my laundry. Not only does it save time and energy, the clothes smell OH So good, especially the sheets
Karen on 10 Sep 2008 at 7:04 pm #
Several of us at work have started going “green”. Instead of throwing away all the excess paper that we use daily, we keep a box in each office and collect the paper so we can recycle it. We also only print something out if we absolutely have to. We also have a container in our break room so everyone can throw their cans in it instead of them going to the landfill. “Save the Planet, it’s the only one we have”
Gwen Schafer on 10 Sep 2008 at 7:56 pm #
1. Recylce Newspaper, cans and bottles
2. Cfl bulbs
3. Take water to work in reusable container
4. Do not run water while brushing teeth and conserve it all the time
5. No styrofoam plates etc.
6.Using the new reusable grocery bags instead of plastic.
Linda on 10 Sep 2008 at 8:27 pm #
I recycle newspapers,office paper and popcans and glad more people are doing the same.
Genevieve Arballo on 10 Sep 2008 at 8:49 pm #
I use the bags that store sell for reuse, I use a waterbottle not store bought ones.
Stacey Amarantos on 11 Sep 2008 at 4:37 pm #
We recycle our newspapers and cans. We conserve water when brushing our teeth. Also water can be conserved by putting pebbles in your toilet tank so less water is used for each flush. We have changed out all of our light bulbs as well.
J Nevin on 11 Sep 2008 at 8:44 pm #
I recently retired and have made the time to research ways to help our environment for the next generation, which includes my children and grandchildren. Very enlightening and informative. It is the least I can do to improve our way of life now and in the future. “Pay it forward” in appreciation of the green movement. I can truly say that it will be very rewarding to “get involved and participate.
Michael Dziak on 12 Sep 2008 at 10:52 am #
I am a promoter of the International Year of Astronomy 2009 public outreach program and an avid amateur astronomer (have a 17 1/2″ Dobsonian Telescope and love to host observing sessions with it). Directed shielded light fixtures (reflects light down- not into the sky) uses less energy to produce the same ground illumination (low wattage bulb required), thus saves precious energy to produce the electricity used. This also preserves the night skies from light pollution (known to disrupt the natural behavior clycles of many wild creatures, especially at night, thus endangering the reproduction of these night sensative species.
Its a “no brainer”- saves money, great clear sky views, and most importantly – protects nocturnal wildlife from light encrochment. By switching out outdoor light fixtures to directed shielded downward lighting (every Home Depot, Lowes, Mendards,ect.has them) a lower wattage bulb can be used to light up more area for security and safety. It works! Try it. These fixtures pay themselves in 1 to 2 years. The rest goes into your pocket after that.
lynn wolz on 12 Sep 2008 at 12:51 pm #
We switched to the new energy saving lightbulbs.
BERNIE on 12 Sep 2008 at 5:55 pm #
I am recycling the bottles,cans,and paper that is left on the school bus, that I drive. I also tell all the kids how important this idea is, and work with them to recycle at home too!
Angelica Gonyea on 12 Sep 2008 at 8:56 pm #
When I grocery shop I request paper bags, because the store can reuse them. I also save and reuse messed up paper from the printer and attempt to turn as many lights off as possible when not in use or at home.
Carla Bergemann on 13 Sep 2008 at 12:21 pm #
I have recently replaced ALL my light bulbs with the ‘curly’ Energy efficient, 5 year bulbs.
Mary Bennett on 15 Sep 2008 at 12:01 pm #
We’ve starting recycling our many newspapers, and starting collecting cans and plastics in a bin to recycle.
Sherriann Frantz on 15 Sep 2008 at 12:29 pm #
When shopping I take my own cloth bags. As a gardener I have and use a composter. I put all yard waste except large woody pieces into the composter.
Anita Schmidt on 15 Sep 2008 at 3:27 pm #
During this summer, I dried my towels and sheets out on my clothes lines. They smell so fresh after they are dry. I saved money on my electric bill. I take cloth shopping bags when I go to buy food. I recycle cans, plastic, glass bottles, newspapers and magazines. I have done this for about 10 years now, 7 of those years at my current home in Cambridge, MN. It seems like more work, but the garbage is not as full when you recycle. I also use the plastic grocery bags in my small trash cans at home, instead of buying bags to put garbage in. I have also switched many of my harsh chemicals for cleaning to other kinds that are more friendly to our environment. Also, in the summer, I never turn my oven on-we cook on the barbeque. It always tastes better cooked on the grill anyway.
Janice on 15 Sep 2008 at 6:06 pm #
Within the last year our garbage service has gone to only one recylce pick up a month. This has been really tough. I found myself not recycling as much because I did not have room for the month’s worth of cans, etc. I have lobbied for an additional pick up and it looks like we are going to get it! In the meantime, I make sure to smash all my cans and use additional “non approved” containers.
Donna Piccioli on 15 Sep 2008 at 10:11 pm #
I’ve tried to do my part in going green by recycling through our city government. They supply bins and we put in paper/glass/metal and plastic.
A few of our local schools ask for donations of old phone books, old cell phones and old printer ink cartridges. This way it is a win/win situation. It helps the environment, helps out the school with fund raising and helps me keep my house a little less cluttered.
I work for a publication company. I’d like to see my company do it’s part of going green by recycling expired publications rather than throwing them in the dumpster.
Debbie Martens on 16 Sep 2008 at 6:46 pm #
I recycle newspaper, aluminum, cardboard, glass and styrofoam. I also use shredded paper for mulch in my garden.
Leslie Hamilton on 17 Sep 2008 at 10:27 pm #
I’ve bought an old house to recycle in stead of buying new. I have heavily insolated, switched to compact floresents, put in a high efficiancy furnus(sp), never water our lawn and recyle. I’d like to capture rain water and switch to geothermal.
Yvonne LoFaso on 18 Sep 2008 at 6:04 pm #
I have recycled for years and although I have to admit I did not believe it would make a difference years ago (70′s) I do now and recycle all aluminum cans of any kind, all plastic. In the past 4 years we reccyle all leaves to mulch and switched to more Go Green products. We have done so much recycling that now my youngest daughter is going to college to earn a degree in Environmental Engineering, so I guess Mom and Dad and family memebers have really made an impact on how we need to save our resources for the next many generations to come. If I could take mass transit more I would, being close to NYC I do take it often but not daily.
Elly Giattino on 18 Sep 2008 at 6:29 pm #
Paying attention to everything we do!
Watch the trash, how do we separate? Turn off the lights when not in use. Jack up the thermostat – both for heating and air, and the water heater. Grocery bags – get re-usable! Re-use the ones you have!
Dena Darragh on 18 Sep 2008 at 7:49 pm #
I use low energy bulbs and recycle plastic and aluminum. I’ve also tried keeping my air conditioning off and windows open as much as possible.
glenda lehfeldt on 19 Sep 2008 at 6:00 pm #
I have bought permanent water bottles that are safe. I just refill those instead of buying and recycling water bottles. I try and recycle EVERYTHING!
Karen Timberman Putnam on 20 Sep 2008 at 2:43 pm #
Due to medications I take I am always drinking water, I no longer buy bottled water, I refill bottles and use them over and over again. Now that I realize how dangerous plastic is to our enviroment because it never breaks down, I try very hard to not buy in plastic. I use cloth grocery bags and buy glass packaged products as I can reuse most glass jars. I make food gifts at Christmas and use all sorts of interesting jars to package gifts in. I also have a barn full of show horses and I try to only buy products that come in a re-fill form, so that I don’t keep purchasing a new plastic spray bottle everytime.
Sherry Malone on 21 Sep 2008 at 12:13 am #
We’ve tried to reduce the amount of waste in our house by making sure lights and electronics are turned off when not in use, and washing clothes less often and in larger loads. We also look for ways to reuse products like using grocery bags for bathroom trash bags and reselling or donating items we no longer use. We save gasoline by running errands before or after work instead of making an extra trip.
Jennifer Theyskens on 21 Sep 2008 at 9:41 am #
We no longer buy plastic bottles,and reuse our shopping bags, along with cloth shopping bags.
Ali Griffis on 21 Sep 2008 at 5:51 pm #
I shred all paper and use it for packing and mulch in my garden.
Theresa Hood on 22 Sep 2008 at 10:15 am #
I save any papers, printed on one side only,from work or the kids school papers and use them in my computer printer. Most of the things I print are for my own reference so it doesn’t matter if something is on the back. I always print on fast draft, refill my ink cartridges and recycle the paper when I’m done with it.
Wenda Toland on 24 Sep 2008 at 6:41 pm #
We have replaced all of our light bulbs to energy efficient/low wattage bulbs. We have also bought cloth bags to get our groceries in. We try to carpool as much as possible.
Cynthia Elliott Radford on 26 Sep 2008 at 10:57 am #
I really like this site. Great work!!!
Cynthia Elliott Radford on 26 Sep 2008 at 11:11 am #
I recycle plastic bags, bottles,cans, and paper.
Nancy on 26 Sep 2008 at 11:49 am #
I have alot of things in place to go green – I am also raising my children to learn and understand the importance of recycling, reusing. I reuse plastic grocery bags when I go to the store – I typically shop at Aldi’s. I use the plastic bags also so liners in my small trash cans. we wash and refill water bottles. I buy staple items in bulk and continue to refill bottles and containers – mustard, Ketchup, mayo, gatorade, juice drinks, cerals.
Mary Jude Basmagy on 27 Sep 2008 at 1:50 pm #
What a great website…so full of great information! I love it!!
Mary Jude Basmagy on 27 Sep 2008 at 1:54 pm #
I purchased cloth grocery bags that I use every time I shop; I recycle; I reuse my own water bottle; and I try to always buy green products!
Denise Felly on 28 Sep 2008 at 6:25 pm #
We do not have recycle service at home but we are recycling now at work and I think it has made a big difference in the way everyone looks at recycling and why we should do it.
Melissa Manske on 29 Sep 2008 at 10:24 am #
We keep two 13-gallon trash cans tucked between the stove and fridge in the kitchen. The one in the front is for recycling, the one in the back is for trash. Keeping the recycling can closer always reminds us to consider whether what we have is recyclable, and oftentimes we find it is.
Greg Bean on 29 Sep 2008 at 2:03 pm #
I have replaced all of our light bulbs to energy efficient. I also ride my bike to work as much as the weather will permit.
Megan Bean on 29 Sep 2008 at 2:07 pm #
We take everything we can recycle to the recycling bin. We make sure all of our lights are out during the day and the ones we don’t need at night.
Pat DiLernia on 08 Oct 2008 at 3:35 pm #
We buy in bulk to reduce waste. Installed a washline over the summer – now I let the sun dry our cloths!
Pat DiLernia on 08 Oct 2008 at 3:36 pm #
Installed a washline over the summer – now the sun dries out clothes.
Heather on 17 Oct 2008 at 8:49 pm #
replaced all our light bulbs to energy effecient ones, as well as re sealed all the windows to keep the heat in and the cool out!
Cindy McCullough on 21 Oct 2008 at 1:52 pm #
I separate all my trash. What ever can be recycled is cleaned and put in the blue recycle can. I also save my old milk jugs clean really good and fill with water and freeze. They work great to put in your cooler to take camping,etc. It keeps your ice colder which means you have to buy less ice.
Renee Burnett on 22 Oct 2008 at 8:41 pm #
We reuse our reuseables, which includes all containers. We don’t throw it out unless it’s usefulness is done. I’ve bought bags to use at the grocery stores and keep a set in each car. We wash our aluminum foil and reuse. My grandmother who was a farmer was fantastic at recycling before it became popular. She lived within her means and had some to share. Reuse, recyle and donate anything possible. Your trash is someone else’s treasure.
TIM GLASSBURN on 23 Oct 2008 at 7:39 pm #
We recycle almost all our trash including Metal, Plastic, Cardboard, and Glass. Very little is thrown in the garbage container. We also just purchased 75 watt flood lights of the florescent type to save energy.
Denise Glassburn on 23 Oct 2008 at 7:42 pm #
I am so excited to build a log home that is energy efficient. We have always been green oriented for many years – recycling before it was easy. We still make sure that when we are working and the place of work does not recycle we take the items home and recycle it there.
Debra Hartley on 24 Oct 2008 at 5:43 am #
This site was great! I liked being able to see a virtual tour of a house without leaving the comfort of my home.
Kathy on 24 Oct 2008 at 2:52 pm #
I’ve replaced my lightbulbs to energy effecient ones. I recycle what I can and drop it off when I’m in the area of the recycling drop off bin. I donate items which are still good instead of throwing them out.
Eileen McCusker on 24 Oct 2008 at 3:20 pm #
We started by switching to CFL bulbs in the house. We also zone our heat so we do not heat rooms that are not in use. It works great and as a result we have a heating bill that is a fraction of those around us.
We also now recycle glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard. We do not have curbside pick-up, so I take the recycled stuff to local drop offs about once a week. It is amazing to see how little we now put out for trash after recycling!
I also have several reusable grocery bags, but I still am trying to get into the habit of remembering to bring them into the store. Hopefully it will come with time.
Pam Holcombe on 28 Oct 2008 at 9:46 am #
When you think about the concept “going green” a lot of people interpret this as going “cold turkey” and giving up all the conveniences and luxuries they have come to think of as necessities. In reality it’s just making simple,sutle changes in your everyday life. I didn’t see it until I read some of the comments posted that I have been going green for years. It didn’t dawn on me because as I said it’s little changes that you make that make a big difference. For instance my husband and I have been composting for at least 10 years. We have 2 compost bins outside and a container that I keep under my sink where all my raw vegetable scraps,coffee grinds and other organic matter go in. When it’s full my husband dumps it in the compost bin &”no” there is never a foul odor. We have a garbage disposal that is very rarly used. My husband is an avid gardener so he always has good rich compost for his garden. We buy organic milk in the cardboard cartons, cut them in half when empty and use them for seed starters. We can many of our own vegetables reusing the canning jars. We also have natural “worm dirt” because my husband layers our garden with old newspapers, covers it with a layer of dirt and the worms move in.
We have had a programmable thermostat for over 10 yrs and just recently changed all our light bulbs to the new energy effecient ones. We have cut way down on our paper towel use by switching to all cotton dish cloths & towels. We have also planted a variety of fruit & nut trees on our property that are now producing beautifully. The only problem is that we have to share with the squirrels but in a “nut shell” so to speak suttle little changes that you make are soon a way of life and that’s a good thing.
Cheri Conklin on 31 Oct 2008 at 6:56 pm #
I have recyled for years,in my office I print on boths sides of paper before I recycle it. Our city collects all recyclable products. We try to do all of our errands at one time. We wash full loads only of laundry. None of these are big steps, but they all help.
Susan Cannan on 01 Nov 2008 at 2:17 pm #
we recycle all bottles, cans, newspaper, cardboard even if you can’t get any money for them (ie-glass bottles here in HI can get you 5cents back). We grow our own container veggies as we don’t have a backyard. We combine all errands that need to be done by car into one run where as we used to grocery shop every day, now we make a list for the week and get it all in one shot. We make sure we do full loads of laundry and not little ones and use cold water. Shorter showers, turn off water heater during the day when no one is home to use hot water, tank is so small doesn’t take long to heat up at all, acutally still very warm when we get home. I’m sure there is more, just can’t think of them right now.