Tips to getting started
1. Start Simple
No need to purchase any new items, use what you have and/or make one small change
Ideas:
- Wash Clothes in cold water vs. warm or hot
- Take bags to use when purchasing items at the store (cloth not necessary, reuse plastic bags)
- Unplug appliances when not in use
- Turn up/down the thermostat to conserve energy
- Re use plastic/glass containers that food products were purchased in vs throwing them away
- Re use garbage bags (if possible, dump indoor garbage in to city trash can instead of including the garbage bag)
- Collect rain water in pail/barrel to water plants/flowers
- Air dry clothes
- Shut down computer(s) every day
- Stop utilizing a 2nd/3rd refrigerator; they consumer a lot of energy, especially older models
- Drive a few mph slower or within speed limit to conserve gas/emissions
- Use rags/cloth for napkins instead of paper
- Reduce number of documents printed to paper; if printing is required, select duplex
- Take 5-10 minute showers
- Keep proper air pressure in car tires
2. Start Small
Incorporate 1 change per week or per month at first rather than multiple items all at once.
This will eliminate becoming overwhelmed/frustrated and then stopping.
- Next time out of cleaning products, purchase eco-friendly products (concentrates)
- Replace top 5 used light bulbs with florescent light bulbs
3. Involve the entire family
If some/all participate it will be easier to continue the new practice. Great teachable moments
for children.
- Have child/children provide ideas for green living and identify the positive impacts that the practice(s) will have on environment and family
- Make the new practices a game and/or competition
4. Think local
Supports community, reduces transporation costs and emissions, improves the land
- Shop at a Farmers Market - less expensive, typically chemical free produce
- Join a co-op/CSA and support local farmers
5. Add more green practices to your daily life
- Purchase second hand toys and play clothes for kids (recycling)
- Use cloth diapers (less expensive than disposable and just as easy disposable)
- Organic lawn fertilizer and weed killer
Iowa Go Green Website
Recycling Ideas
Natural Baby Products
