5 Easy Ways to Become More Eco-Friendly

The majority of us care about the environment, but feel a little overwhelmed by the sheer amount of wastage and pollution caused by people not recycling.  Don't let the scale of the issue prevent you from taking your own first step towards becoming more eco-friendly.  Every little action really does help, and if everyone makes just one small change in their lives, they soon add up on a massive scale.

There are a lot of different ways you can become more eco-friendly and feel like you are making a difference.  Simple changes can make a huge difference and everyone can contribute in their own way. 

Here are 5 simple things you can do to become more eco-friendly in your daily life:

Tip #1: Recycle!

it may seem like an overstated eco-friendly contribution, but recycling is crucial if you want to make a difference.  The good news is that recycling is easy!  There are so many things you can recycle, such as: batteries, aluminum, steel, paper (books, paper bills, magazines, etc.), cell phones, computers, plastic, glass, old clothing, etc.

The first thing you have to do is go to your local recycling program and figure out if they have any special requirements and what materials they accept, how they are sorted and cleaned.  A helpful tip when you are recycling plastic bottles is to always take the cap off, because it makes the bottle easier to crush and break down.  Always rinse items such as bottles or containers as some items are still sorted by hand, so you'll be helping the health of the workers who do this tough but essential job.  Make sure when you are recycling paper that all staples are taken out and it hasn’t been contaminated with food.  Wax paper, used tissues and carbon paper cannot be recycled. 

Look in your community for ways to recycle.  For example if you have a Whole Foods Market you can recycle all the glass milk and soda bottles you have.  All you have to do is rinse them and take them in for a credit.  If you're near a Walmart, Henrys or Traders Joes, they often have a place where you can recycle plastic grocery bags.   Movies and DVDs can also be recycled.  You can go to GreenDisk (www.greendisk.com) and they will safely and securely recycle all of your media, tapes, computer drives, communication devices, batteries, small electronics, film and miscellaneous items such as keyboards, mice, UPS units, etc. 

These are just a few things you can recycle and tips on how to get started.  It is very simple and it doesn’t require much additional time or effort, you simply have to inform yourself and get started!

Tip #2: Bring Your Own Grocery Bag

This is very simple and costs nothing.  Many grocery stores will give cash incentives to those that bring their own grocery bags, which is fantastic!  You can keep them in your car, which makes it very simple and convenient.  This is an easy and great way to become more eco-friendly and make a difference.

Tip #3: Buy Items That are Recycled or Environmentally Friendly

There are many companies that are trying to make a difference and by buying their products you are contributing as well.  Some make packaging from recycled sources and others contribute a percentage of their sales to a foundation that helps the environment.  You can also buy items such as 100% recycled paper towels, toilet paper and printing paper.  Always be on the look out for “green” and recycled items.

Tip #4: Buy Local!

Buying local is a way you can help the planet and your local community at the same time.  Buying from a local business usually means that more money is used to purchase from other local businesses and services, therefore strengthening the economic base of your local community.  Locally owned businesses generally make more local purchases requiring less transportation.  This helps protect the environment from harmful exhaust fumes from planes, trucks and trains which are used to import and ship goods bought in other countries or even just in another state. 

Buying local also helps create jobs as the businesses in your community thrive and grow.  Many local business owners are residents, which means they are invested in the future and growth of the community.  Look for locally grown labels when you go grocery shopping and always pay attention where the item came from.  This will immediately help you become more eco-friendly.

Tip #5: Carpool

Carpooling means sharing a car with another person.  The vast majority of cars on our freeways at any given time contain just one person.  Think about it - if everyone carpooled with just one other person, we would instantly cut the traffic clogging our roads in half!  By carpooling, you reduce air pollution, congestion and fossil fuel usage, while saving you money and time.  You will most likely have a much more pleasant commute by using the carpool lanes and getting to work without having to deal with the morning traffic.  This will make your morning routine less stressful and rushed.  You can also save money on the wear and tear of your vehicle and imagine all the savings from the gas alone!

These 5 things you can do to become more eco-friendly are just a few ideas to get you started and when added up, they all make a big difference.  Each individual will find the best and most convenient way to be eco-friendly, so everyone can make their own unique contribution.  It is very easy and certainly rewarding, so don’t waste any time and get started!