25 Ways to Lead a More Sustainable Life

25 Ways to Lead a More Sustainable Life

small and large steps to a green lifestyle

1. Use renewable resources such as bamboo/cork for flooring when you replace that old ratty carpet
2. Use paper bags or reusable bags for groceries
3. Compost
4. Recycle
5. Turn off faucet while brushing teeth
6. Buy products from environmentally friendly and/or innovative companies
7. Avoid products with harsh chemicals
8. Buy local
9. Purchase or trade for a more efficient car (better gas mileage, minimally, or get a hybrid or electric car)
10. Have your home checked for insulation and heating/cooling efficiency and ask a specialist for ways to improve this
11. Buy Energy Star-rated appliances, such as a high-efficiency washer that uses less water and electricity to wash more clothes in less time
12. Hang up more laundry to air dry (especially in warm weather and with delicates or fleece or sportswear/breathable fabrics)
13. Carpool/ride share to work, on errands, to restaurants/bars/the mall
14. Use public transportation (if possible)
15. Eat at sustainable/local restaurants instead of food chains or international restaurants
16. Use reusable water bottle and travel mug (NOT bottled water and to-go containers)
17. Turn heat down one or two degrees and bundle up a bit more
18. Make your own ice (don't buy ice...)
19. Unplug electronics, chargers, and lamps while away on vacation or even when you leave for the night
20. Dispose of waste responsibly -- especially cell phones, computers, batteries, and chemical waste (household cleaning products, pool chemicals, etc.). Most counties in the U.S. have safe methods of disposal for these items available to anyone who asks and drops them off at the safe sites.
21. If you can afford it, install solar panels on your roof to help or completely power your home
22. Support local farmers markets and green initiatives in your community
23. Instead of throwing away unwanted clothing and decor (old furniture, art, knicknacks, etc.), donate them to the Salvation Army, used clothing or furniture stores, antique stores, thrift stores, Goodwill, etc.
24. Install a simple, homemade water drainage collection system that uses drain water to water outdoor plants, etc.
25. Grow your own herbs, vegetables, etc. or participate in co-ops, community gardens, farmers' markets, etc. to buy fresh, local foods and help the local agricultural community and economy