The Gothic Times

Issue date: 4/28/09 Section: Advice

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"Going green" is heard almost everywhere we go, whether it is by word of mouth or the evening news, but what exactly does "going green" mean? The term refers to the changes we can and should make in our daily lives, which in turn positively affects our earth and environment.

Because "going green" is now such a big issue, many companies are doing more to provide environmentally friendly products. Toyota has come out with the hybrid Camry and Prius that now come with all the added amenities that luxury cars offer. Hybrid cars such as the Toyota Prius offer 50 miles to the gallon and are nearly emission-free and fairly priced at about $20,000. Better miles to the gallon means more money in your pockets, all while helping the earth. So, if you're in need of a car, opting for a hybrid is a smart choice both economically and environmentally. Walking and biking are also eco-friendly and heart-healthy ways to get around.

There are several easy and rather convenient ways to help the planet, starting within the home. Cleaning products, such as Clorox have come out with a green line that uses natural plant oils instead of using harsh chemicals that can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems in humans along with posing a risk to the environment. Unplugging small appliances such as cell phone chargers, toasters, hairdryers, etc. saves bundles of energy. Changing from incandescent bulbs to fluorescent bulbs lasts longer, saves more energy and thus saves you money.

When making your weekly grocery run, by buying organic and locally grown fruits and vegetables you can help reduce the amount of pesticides you not only eat, but are also boycotting the use of pesticides that negatively impact the earth. Also, by walking with your own canvas bag can help to cut down on garbage. These bags can be used repeatedly to pack groceries among other things. Surprisingly, paper bags are just as harmful to the environment as plastic because they both produce pollution when being made.

Although these are just a few suggestions on how to start your process on "going green," there is an abundant amount of information on how to help improve our planet. The best way to help this cause is by spreading the word. Want to help make the earth a better place? Remember the three R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Remember these words the next time you liter. It's rewarding to know that you are doing something positive for yourself but also for the earth.

Start by making small changes like unplugging unused appliances and turning off lights and water that aren't being used. Slowly but surely if we start making changes we will reap the benefits of this beautiful world. Since global warming affects our future generations we need to start today!

To learn more visit these "going green" websites:

http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/
http://www.thegreenguide.com/
http://www.thedailygreen.com/going-green/

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