Thinking Small
An array of eco-friendly products makes going green easier than ever.

These days, images touting ways to reduce our impact on the environment and live more sustainable lives are ubiquitous. Television commercials tout green products, local bookstore shelves are replete with information espousing environmentally friendly options. A decade ago we didn’t speak this way, but today, these catchphrases are part of our everyday language. But because it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the larger picture of saving the world, consumers may forget that everyday lifestyle habits and simple changes can make a greater impact that simply choosing green products. There are many ways consumers can make a difference in our global environment, and the simple changes that can be made today contribute to a healthier home and ultimately a happier planet.

CHANGE A LIGHTBULB. It sounds so simple, but according to the Department of Energy, if every American replaced just one light bulb with and Energy Star-qualified compact bulb (CFL), we would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year. It would also prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars. On a smaller scale, a CFL uses about 75 percent less heat, lasts up to 10 times longer and saves about $30 or more in electrical costs during each bulb’s life when compared with a standard incandescent bulb.

EDIT THE KITCHEN AND BATH. Installing low-flow faucet aerators can cut water usage to as low as 1 gallon per minute, reducing the standard flow by 30 percent. Low-flow showerheads save on water, using only 2.5 gal. per minute, versus conventional models that use 3 to 5 gallons per minute. If you are remodeling, your designer will likely specify low-flow toilets that use only 1.6 gallons of water per flush, while older models use an average of 5. Making any one or all of these changes will not only reduce your water bill, but your eco-consciousness also will benefit the earth.

KEEP RECYCLING. We have been recycling our paper and plastic for years now. Kitchen specialists plan recycling centers into their designs as standard practice. If you are not remodeling or building new yet, you can still incorporate a recycling area into your kitchen, mudroom, or even your garage. It can be as simple as borrowing space in a little-used cabinet and placing a storage bin for collection. Most cities will now allow you to put paper and plastics in the same container, and they sort these recyclables automatically at their facility.

ADD GREEN TO THE BACKYARD. Our patios and yards have become such an extension of our homes that we shouldn’t forget the many opportunities to green up our own backyards. Begin by establishing a water collection system to collect rainwater for watering your plants, gardens, and lawns. This may sound complicated, but it’s as easy as affixing a barrel under a downspout to collect the rainwater from the gutter. You can get more complete systems with attachment hoses and even filter the water. A little research on the Internet will help you find a solution that fits your lifestyle and budget. To lessen your need to water, choose native drought-resistant plants on your next trip to the garden center. Other ways to be kinder to the environment include pulling weeds by hand instead of applying chemicals, building a compost bin or by using an electric or — better yet — a push mower.

These suggestions can make your environment greener and your home healthier, but they aren’t revolutionary ideas. Although the topic is fresh on our conscience, going green isn’t a fad, and hopefully one day living sustainably will be commonplace instead of unconventional. Consider what environmental issues are important to you and make one small change today. In a month, make another. While the actions may seem minor, the benefits will create a lasting impact on your home, as well as on the planet.