The old adage 'less is more' certainly stands in cutting down on paper waste, one of the primary ways to go green at any time. As 4 billion trees are destroyed globally every year for the production of common items such as stereo speakers and the insoles of running shoes, using a recycling bin at work or at home for even the smallest scraps makes a drastic difference in helping to balance the overwhelming amount of production waste. However, there are other tried and true ways to start off 2010 with a greener footprint.
Buy Environmentally Friendly Products
Along the lines of environmentally friendly cars, housing, building materials, clothing, and cleaning solvents, many companies are making a steadfast effort in continuing to create products with the health of the planet in mind. An online search for every day utilities now generates earth friendly options and suggests local retail stores to save on shipping costs and paper and plastic waste at the same time. Many of these common items are right next to original products on shelves so it's never too late to start small by choosing the alternatives.
Utilize Local Companies
Costs of shipping and handling products can not only put a crunch on pocketbooks, they can also eat up valuable energy and manufacturing resources. Instead of sourcing from big names, try searching local cities for companies that can provide the same goods and materials in half the time and, more often than not, at a cheaper rate. Not only does this reduce pollution in the manufacturing and transportation of products but it also supports local community business and fosters relationships everyone can feel good about.
Recycle Old Computers and Electronics the Safe Way
Disposing of or salvaging old computers, cell phones, cameras, and camcorders can be time consuming and dangerous when not done properly. However, the folks at MyBoneYard, a reputable online company committed to handling the toxic discarding and reuse of chemical based electronic parts, are happy to help. They provide the pre-paid shipping labels and often a small monetary payment in exchange for old equipment. As the holidays come to a close with the hottest new cell phones, Macbooks and PCs aplenty, the advantage of cleaning out old computers and electronics throughout 2010 pays off - literally.
Other local city recycling companies will also take donated electronics, most of the time for a fee. In any instance, always be sure to ask thorough questions, including where recycled products are shipped, how the data is destroyed, and what other organizations cooperate with them to ensure honest, quality reuse.
Reconsider Hybrid and Electric Car Models
There's no better time to start going green on the road. Electric and hybrid cars are being thrust into the spotlight more than ever before and with good reason: with gas prices the way they are, little to no fuel and less emissions means drivers looking for a good deal in the new year get where they're going at a fraction of the price.
Since the inception of the electric car in 1839 and hybrid in 1898, nearly every major automaker has jumped on the green bandwagon with drastically improved aerodynamic vehicle models and better user functionality. As more people have invested in hybrid cars over the years, they've become more affordable, too.
Get Involved
Many online social communities like Green Bin bring together those devoted to making a conscious effort for the environment. Join websites or local organizations to share ideas and generate new program ideas, or form a focus group on one specific issue and take it to a general public meeting at city hall. Becoming involved first hand is one of the best ways to contribute to a positive change throughout the year and for years to come.
Local GREEN Event for Niagara Region Residents:
- Project Tree Cycle: On Sunday, January 10th, 2010 visit the Niagara Parks Botanical Garden in Niagara Falls for the annual Project Tree Cycle to see real Christmas trees being recycled and reused. The Regional Waste Program will be collecting trees on Saturday, January 9th and the Niagara Parks Commission will mulch them on Sunday for anyone to stop by the Botanical Garden to shovel their own mulch. Bring a bag and stock up on free shavings for Spring projects.
For more information on ways to go green with fashion, please visit 2010 Eco-friendly Clothing Lines
Erin McLaughlin - As an honors graduate of the University of Toledo's Arts and Sciences program with a B.A. in English and a focus on general writing, Erin ...
