Green Gifts
by Mackenzie M. February 16th, 2012 | 30 Second Tip
Giving gifts can be done with being green in mind - no matter what the occasion. Although it is tempting to go to the nearest big box store and pick out a bouquet of imported flowers that are full of preservatives and chemicals, consider buying a plant in a pot. In the card, you can write a message such as, “the potted plant will grow with our love.” In actuality, the plant will grow and even filter the air, whereas cut flowers will die rapidly. Also, be sure to buy chocolate that is strictly fair trade and organic. Make
Donate for a Healthier Planet
by Mackenzie M. February 2nd, 2012 | 30 Second Tip
One of the easiest ways to green your lifestyle is to get into the habit of donations. Although monetary donations are great, donating material goods can often be far better for the Earth. Consider donating used furniture items, clothes, general household items, reusable water bottles, and even cars to disaster relief areas. This way, rather than putting a bigger burden on manufacturers and natural resources to make and transport new items, the donated items reuse materials, taking out the waste of new materials. Even something as simple as sending reusable water bottles to disaster areas removes the need for
Green Your Computer
by Mackenzie M. January 19th, 2012 | 30 Second Tip
Computers consume a lot of energy. Reading this tip right now, you are consuming energy; however, minimizing this energy consumption is easy. One way to save is to shut down your computer each time it is not in use. Many have developed the bad habit of leaving the computer on 24 hours a day. For those who do not have the option to completely shut down, utilize the sleep function. Also, many computers have energy-efficient settings that adjust screen and keyboard brightness for maximum energy efficiency. Finally, next time you are in the market for a computer, purchase one
Green Your New Year’s Resolutions
by Mackenzie M. January 5th, 2012 | 30 Second Tip
Most everyone practices the annual tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions, or goals, for the new year. While many people make resolutions regarding personal behaviors, weight loss, or relationships, there is a new trend. Thousands are now resolving to live a green lifestyle. This can range from anything from recycling, to giving up plastic and bottled water, to signing off of catalog and junk mail lists, with some even being as extreme as giving up hot water. Others plan to give up paper and plastic bags by utilizing reusable cloth shopping bags. Living a green lifestyle is not as
Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping: Bows
by Mackenzie M. December 22nd, 2011 | 30 Second Tip
One of the products of the holiday season that are often wasted and overlooked are the millions of bows that are placed on gifts annually. Imagine all of the bows, even within individual households, that are discarded each year; however, there are many simple ways to finish wrapping presents without wasting bows. For example, use bows from previous years. You can also try reusable items like hair bows, ornaments, or toys. Even items like scarves, beads and buttons, flowers, or old neckties can make great finishing touches to gifts. And the added bonus is that they are also eco-friendly.
