The hot topic lately is “Going Green!”  How can you go green and help the environment?  There are so many little things that many people are already doing!  Drinking from reusable water bottles, using cloth grocery bags, and recycling paper, plastic, and glass, just to name a few!  After doing some research and thinking outside the box a little, I came across many other things that not only help save our environment but could also save you some green! 

1. Light up with LEDs. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) use less energy, generate less heat, and last longer than other bulbs.
2. Be Creative! Find creative ways to reuse old glass jars, mason jars, plastic bottles, etc.  I teach Sunday School and I’ve been able to create crafts for the kids using plastic water bottles, old foam egg cartons, plastic lids from hairspray bottles, and many other things!  Let the Internet be your best friend!  You will be amazed at the number of things you find if you Google something like “crafts from recycled materials” or “plastic bottle crafts.”
3. ENERGY STAR. Switch one appliance to an energy efficient model (look for the ENERGY STAR label).  ENERGY STAR appliances, windows, doors, etc. won’t only save you money on your electric bill but could qualify you for a tax credit! More green in your pocket! 
4. Go Local! By supporting your local businesses you save fuel and help your local economy.  Along with this, donating to and shopping at thrift stores not only helps those in need but it also helps reuse/recycle items that are still in perfectly good condition. One person’s junk, is another person’s treasure!
5. Collect rainwater.  Use it to water your houseplants and garden.
6. Switch to a laptop instead of using a desktop computer. This will lower your electrical use and most users find a laptop more convenient as you can use it anywhere in your home.   Setting your laptop/computer to sleep or hibernate mode instead of using a screen saver uses less electricity as well.
7. Give those clothes some fresh air! If you haven’t already, try line-drying your clothes rather than using a dryer.  This will save energy and extend your dryer’s lifespan!  If you’re worried about your clothes not being soft, try tossing them in the dryer for 5-10 minutes when they’re still a little damp.  They’ll still be soft and you’ll be saving money and energy.

These are just a few more ways you can Go Green, but there are endless suggestions online. Again, let the Internet be your friend!  What are some things you do to help the environment?