Image by Per Ola Wiberg / Creative Commons

I don’t know about where you live, but it has been getting pretty hot around here. Temperatures have been closing in on 100°F and I’d say it is about time for some eco-friendly summer tips. Last year I covered this topic as well, and I figured it would be worth repeating, especially for those of you who missed out. So in honor of the “greenie” in all of us, here are my eco-friendly summer tips that are worth repeating:

1. Let in some light. Why waste electricity in your house or workplace, when all you need to do is open the blinds and you’ve got light.

2. Get a few living air purifiers aka indoor plants. They will liven up your home as well as help fight indoor air pollution, which is often worse than most of us realize.

3. Plant some native plants. There are many reasons why you should do this, but here are a few good reasons to plant native species in your garden. Of course, one of the best reasons is that you won’t waste so much water.

4. Start your own backyard (or front yard) garden and grow some fresh fruits and vegetables. They’re organic and they taste better. Here are a few ideas for vegetables to plant in July.

5. Find out when your local Farmers’ Market is being held and go there to get some in-season, local produce.

Image by Andy Fell

6. Eat at home. Get away from processed foods and start making more meals at home. It’s cheaper and better for you too.

7. Remember to practice healthy summer grilling tips. And even though it isn’t grilled, I wanted to share my new favorite recipe, Anita’s Lime Avocado Quinoa Salad, and yes, this tasty recipe is perfect for summer picnics and parties.

8. If you need to do any driving, slow down a little. Not only will it help with your fuel consumption but it will help you enjoy your drive time. A proven fuel additive wouldn’t hurt either…hint, hint.

9. Quit idling. Just turn off the car. Turn it back on when you are ready to go again. It’s that simple and it saves gas and harmful emissions. (The new Malibu Eco has a cool feature that switches off the gas-guzzling engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and lets it idle on a lithium-oin battery.)

10. If you can walk or ride your bike instead, then do so. Many people don’t consider this as a viable option, but just think how much you used to walk around when you were younger. Those feet were made for walking.

Image by one2c900d

11. If you need to go somewhere a little further away, check public transportation options. Riding the bus or taking the train are smart ways to get around during the summer.

12. Make the simple change so you do all your energy-heavy chores off peak hours. Do your laundry, dishes, vacuuming, cooking, etc. at night. Doing so will cut your energy bill and help prevent your home from heating up unnecessarily during the day.

13. Skip the dryer and hang your clothes out to dry. If you have the space to do so, might as well take advantage of it.

14. Plan a staycation. Maybe you don’t have time to go on a full-blown vacation. Maybe you’d rather stay closer to home. Either way, here are 25 great ideas you can incorporate into your staycation plans.

15. If you are planning on going camping this summer, be sure you learn how to have a “leave no trace” camping trip. Some simple basics can help ensure others will be able to experience the beauty of your camping spot just as you did.

16. Is the thought of going somewhere to camp during the summer months a little too daunting? Set up camp in the backyard. Especially if you have kids, this is a great idea for a smart, eco-friendly activity the entire family will enjoy.

Image by zet

17. Have a potluck get-together. Invite family and friends over for a picnic or backyard party. Ask them each to bring a specific food item (in a reusable container) along with their own dinnerware, cups, etc. This way you’ll have a great mix of foods and drinks. Plus, there will be very little clean up or waste afterward. Check out these green picnic tips.

18. Remember the sunscreen. But not just any sunscreen, you need to choose a non-toxic sunscreen so you aren’t polluting your skin or the environment.

19. Drink, but don’t waste water. Your body needs water to stay healthy and hydrated. So you need to drink water. Don’t waste it though. Any “leftover water” can be used to water plants, give to your pets, etc. Just be aware of what you are doing and you will probably save quite a bit.

20. Unplug. Even if you missed this challenge on the 4th of July, it doesn’t mean you too can’t make a personal commitment to unplug more and reconnect with family and friends. Declare your independence from technology.

Image by Ben

21. Since you are going to unplug, get outside! That’s right, I saved this one for last, but it doesn’t mean it isn’t important. It’s key not only for your health, but your peace of mind to get outside, breathe in some fresh air and enjoy nature a little bit. Go for a hike, a walk, a bike ride, relax in the pool, sit on the porch…whatever you do, just get outside for a bit every day.

There you have it. 25 simple eco-friendly tips to help you get through the summer. If you have any personal favorites, let me know. I’d be happy to hear what eco-friendly things you’ve got planned for the summer. Have a great one and as I always say, have a biofriendly day!

Image by Atli Haroarson / Creative Commons

For 42 years Earth Days have come and gone. What makes this one any different? To start, today there are more than 22,000 Earth Day Network partners in 192 countries participating in the Earth Day mobilization movement. In addition, more than 1 billion people around the world will be taking part in this year’s Earth Day activities and events.

All in all, Earth Day is a great way for the people of earth to join together in a common purpose to “help Mobilize the Earth™”. It is one day when “People of all nationalities and backgrounds will voice their appreciation for the planet and demand its protection.”

I, for one, am all behind doing that because I truly enjoy certain aspects of this planet and I want my children and their children to be able to enjoy them too. Unfortunately, after Earth Day is over, many people are going to go right back to their “normal” non environmentally-friendly habits and routines.

There are a few actions, here and there, that will seep in. Actions that people will take home with them. One of the simplest things EVERY person on the planet can do though, is to pledge to do an act of green. I don’t mean you should make a one time pledge, but rather a pledge to do an act of green that you can continue to do each and every day throughout the year. Here are some examples of pledges you can make this Earth Day:

• Reduce your food waste. (Tip: It all starts with planning)
• Plant and maintain a vegetable or herb garden.
• Plant a tree.
• Set your thermostat to save on energy costs associated with running your air conditioning (recommended is 78 when you’re at home and 85 when you are away).
• Save water. Try these 10 simple ways to conserve water.
• Make more fresh, local and organic meals at home.
• Go for a walk every day.
• Help keep your park and neighborhood clean.
• Donate your unused clothes and household items.
• Carpool or take public transportation at least once a week.
• Switch to natural cleaning supplies to clean your home.

I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea. Here are a few more energy-saving tips that will also help you get through Spring and into Summer. (I know it feels like Summer here already.)

It all starts with making one simple pledge, one simple change in your life and lifestyle. Then this time next year you’ll be a lot further along and you’ll probably find your simple “act of green” has become the new normal.

Almost 993,000,000 people have pledged to do an act of green this Earth Day. What act of green are you pledging to do this Earth Day and beyond?

Image by Triple Tri / Creative Commons

The big game is almost here and if you are any kind of football fan you’ve probably already figured out who you are watching the game with, where you are going to watch it, what you are eating and most importantly which team you want to win. With all of that figured out, I wanted to give you a few friendly tips to help lower your environmental footprint just a bit. Don’t worry, they are easy to do and won’t cramp your style. You game?

First of all, many people are planning on attending parties, get-togethers or gathering at a local bar/restaurant in order to watch the game. Needless to say, there is going to be a lot of food at most of these places. You will probably have your choice of tasty snacks, drinks and other foods.

Image via Netta S on Pinterest via Facebook.com

That being said, it is important not only to not eat too much, but to not waste food either. Take a look at some of these shocking facts about how much food we waste. My tip is to a) make less, b) send friends home with leftovers so they don’t go to waste, c) compost any other left over food, and d) recycle all bottles and cans.

If you are the host of a game day party, or if you are going to a “potluck” party, then here are some organic recipes that may help you out. I know we all have our favorite, go-to snacks, but there is no need to indulge in 100% fatty foods when you can add in some fresh, yummy, organic alternatives. Feast away!

Now, you may not be aware of this, but for the last 18 years the NFL has been taking steps to “green” the Super Bowl, and this year is no different. Green Mountain Energy Company is going to be the company supplying 15,000 megawatt hours of “renewable energy certificates” designed to help offset some of the electricity (and resultant greenhouse gas emissions) that will be used at seven of the primary NFL venues on game day.

If the NFL can do it, so can you. My first tip is to to carpool wherever you are going. Second, if you don’t have plans for the game, make them – 10 people in one room will use a lot less electricity than those same 10 people being in 10 different rooms watching the game. Third, if you’re planning a big get-together, you and your guests can choose whichever Green Mountain offset product best suits your needs and take steps to offset your environmental footprint for the entire day.

Ditch the disposables. Instead of going out and getting plastic forks, knives, spoons, plates and cups, my tip is to ask all your guests to bring their own. Trust me, it’s not that hard. Besides, if someone forgets, you can also have some reusable supplies on hand to help them out.

Well, that about covers it for now. If you have any other helpful tips, please feel free to drop a comment and share the wealth. For those of you who missed it, here was last year’s green facts and figures surrounding the Super Bowl. Here’s hoping you have a great and biofriendly weekend. Enjoy the game!

Image by Stella Blu / Creative Commons

The holidays are here and as we all scramble to finish up our shopping or finalize those last minute plans, I wanted to take a moment to wish each of you a happy holiday. Here are my biofriendly wishes to you and yours:

1. May your days be filled with smiles, laughter and other eco-friendly ways to brighten your spirits and lift your mood.

2. May the beauty of nature draw you outside to experience the natural wonders of the world around you.

Image by Per Ola Wiberg / Creative Commons

3. May you have lower emissions and higher fuel efficiency as you travel to visit friends and loved ones.

4. May your house be filled with natural decorations, soy candles, and plants that help clean the air and improve your indoor air quality. A healthy dose of fresh air wouldn’t hurt either.

5. May you have little waste, and may you finds way to recycle, reuse and reduce during the holiday season.

6. May your meals feature lots of organic, healthy and local foods, like those found in these gourmet vegetarian recipes, perfect for Christmas dinner.

Image by Andy Roberts / Creative Commons

7. May you have just enough food to provide for you and your loved ones. May any leftovers find their way back to the table to be used and enjoyed. And may your compost be your friend.

8. As often as possible, may your home be warmed by the natural heat of visiting family and friends. The rest of the time, may your home heating oil be tempered with a little Green Plus® to reduce your costs and help save the environment.

Image by Cody / Creative Commons

9. May you take the time to unplug, both at work and home, during the holidays. I don’t mean just log off your computer, unplug. Even those of you who do not have time off work should spend your downtime unplugged. Who knows, you may find you like it.

10. For those of you with kids (or even for those of you who do not have kids), my friend Bethe says it best with her 12 Days of Christmas: Kicking it Grass Stain Guru Style!

Image by Biofriendly

Last, but not least, may the following quotes help inspire your actions and activities throughout the holiday season and into the new year:

“ Take care of the earth and she will take care of you.“  ~Author Unknown

“There is a sufficiency in the world for man’s need but not for man’s greed.“  ~Mohandas K. Gandhi

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.“  ~Native American Proverb

Wishing you and yours a truly biofriendly holiday!

Image by Carrie / Creative Commons

The holidays are here and if your life is anything like mine, you’re pretty busy right about now. I still have gifts to buy, presents to wrap, packages and cards to send, e-cards to put together and send out, and a whole slew of activities, parties and events to attend. Between all the hustle and bustle though, I wanted to share a few simple and eco-friendly ways to brighten your holiday mood.

1) Open those windows. Whether or not it’s cold where you live, opening your windows will help bring in some fresh air and get rid of the stale indoor air pollution lingering inside your home. If you are worried about getting cold, bundle up for a little bit while you air things out. The fresh, clean air will do wonders to help brighten your day and your overall mood.

Image by Miguel Virkkunen / Creative Commons

2) Get outdoors every day. Why? Because fresh air is good for your energy. Letting the fresh air into your home is a smart idea, but spending some time outdoors is even smarter. Go for a walk, a run, or perhaps a bike ride. Take the kids to play in the park. Even stepping outside to enjoy the day will help brighten your mood and give you a little burst of energy.

3) Indulge in a few foods that will help lift your spirits and brighten your mood. Walnuts, chocolate (fair trade chocolate, of course), and blueberries are just some of the foods you can eat during the holidays to help brighten your mood.

Image by Jessica Spengler / Creative Commons

4) Speaking of foods…eat natural. Stay away from foods which contain a lot of sugar and opt for more natural foods like fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. This will help level out your sugar levels and prevent you from riding the sugar-induced roller coaster. Just a quick stop at your local Farmers’ Market and you’ll be set.

5) Give to someone in need. Whether you volunteer at your local food bank, homeless shelter, animal shelter or any other organization which helps those in need, you will find that helping others is a terrific way to brighten your mood. Even helping out a friend in need, or doing some random act of kindness, can put a smile on both their face and yours.

Image by Jemingway / Creative Commons

6) I’ve said it before and I’m going to say it again. Smile. Even if you are feeling a little down, brighten your holiday mood with a smile. Studies have shown that smiling helps activate happiness. Start smiling and before you know it, you’ll be feeling as happy as the smile on your face!

“The world always looks brighter from behind a smile” – Unknown Author

I hope you found these eco-friendly ideas useful and that you too can add them to your daily schedule in order to help brighten your holiday mood. Remember, sometimes it is the little things that can make the most difference. Here’s to a happy and eco-friendly holiday season!

Sunday, October 16th is World Food Day 2011. It is a day for uniting people, from all walks of life, in order to increase awareness and understanding about the need to alleviate worldwide hunger.

While there are many ways people can participate and contribute on World Food Day, here are a couple of ideas you can use to help get you, your family and your friends taking steps towards sustainability and doing something about ending world hunger:

1) Sign the petition to end hunger. Nearly one billion people live life in a constant state of hunger. Sign the petition letting your government know you don’t think people should go hungry, especially when there are things that can be done.

2) Dedicate your Sunday dinner. Oxfam America is encouraging families to dedicate their Sunday dinner to a conservation about where our food comes from, the farmers and growers who contribute to our meals, and what can be done to increase sustainable growing.

3) Shop local. For your Sunday dinner, how about hitting the Farmers’ Market or local growers. Doing so contributes to the local economy, helps local growers and gives you some fresh produce and other items perfect for your dinner table. Use Localharvest to help find real food resources near you.

Image by Peyri Herrera / Creative Commons

4) Take some advice from CNN on how to make an impact on hunger. With 1 out of every 6 people feeling the constant pain of hunger, how can it be that the world is already producing enough food to feed everyone? Where is all that food going? What can you do to help?

5) If you miss World Food Day, October 24th is Food Day 2011. It is a day when Americans can ban together in a “push for healthy, affordable food produced in a sustainable, humane way”. Let’s face it, it starts with each one of us. If we don’t make the decision and demand a change, how can we expect the necessary changes to take place?

In many parts of the world, cost and convenience have taken the place of natural and home-grown, or healthy and sustainable. What happened to home-cooked meals, like the ones we grew up on? What about all those people around the world who don’t have access to fresh or locally-grown foods? Where does sustainability fit in?

There is no doubt that changes need to be made. No person deserves to go hungry. The first step in making a difference is becoming aware, then getting educated on what you can do to help. So, what steps can you take towards a sustainable future in honor of World Food Day and Food Day?

Image by Adam Campbell

Summer is here and although most of us will be working or will be on our computers most of the time, I figured I’d give you a few tips to help make your summer a little more eco-friendly. Not every tip will relate to everyone, but there is bound to be something in here that you can use to help you have an eco-friendly summer.

Here we go:

1. Let in some light. Why waste electricity in your house or workplace, when all you need to do is open the blinds and you’ve got light.

2. Get a few living air purifiers aka indoor plants. They will liven up your home as well as help fight indoor air pollution, which is often worse than most of us realize.

3. Plant some native plants. There are many reasons why you should do this, but here are a few good reasons to plant native species in your garden. Of course, one of the best reasons is that you won’t waste so much water.

4. Start your own backyard (or front yard) garden and grow some fresh fruits and vegetables. They’re organic and they taste better. Here are a few ideas for vegetables to plant in July.

5. Find out when your local Farmers’ Market is being held and go there to get some in-season, local produce.

Image by Andy Fell

6. Eat at home. Get away from processed foods and start making more meals at home. It’s cheaper and better for you too.

7. Remember to practice healthy summer grilling tips. And even though it isn’t grilled, I wanted to share my new favorite recipe, Anita’s Lime Avocado Quinoa Salad, and yes, this tasty recipe is perfect for summer picnics and parties.

8. If you need to do any driving, slow down a little. Not only will it help with your fuel consumption but it will help you enjoy your drive time. A proven fuel additive wouldn’t hurt either…hint, hint.

9. Quit idling. Just turn off the car. Turn it back on when you are ready to go again. It’s that simple and it saves gas and harmful emissions.

10. If you can walk or ride your bike instead, then do so. Many people don’t consider this as a viable option, but just think how much you used to walk around when you were younger. Those feet were made for walking.

Image by one2c900d

11. If you need to go somewhere a little further away, check public transportation options. Riding the bus or taking the train are smart ways to get around during the summer.

12. Make the simple change so you do all your energy-heavy chores off peak hours. Do your laundry, dishes, vacuuming, cooking, etc. at night. Doing so will cut your energy bill and help prevent your home from heating up unnecessarily during the day.

13. Skip the dryer and hang your clothes out to dry. If you have the space to do so, might as well take advantage of it.

14. Plan a staycation. Maybe you don’t have time to go on a full-blown vacation. Maybe you’d rather stay closer to home. Either way, here are 25 great ideas you can incorporate into your staycation plans.

15. If you are planning on going camping this summer, be sure you learn how to have a “leave no trace” camping trip. Some simple basics can help ensure others will be able to experience the beauty of your camping spot just as you did.

16. The thought of going somewhere to camp during the summer months a little too daunting? Set up camp in the backyard. Especially if you have kids, this is a great idea for a smart, eco-friendly activity the entire family will enjoy.

Image by zet

17. Have a potluck get-together. Invite family and friends over for a picnic or backyard party. Ask them each to bring a specific food item (in a reusable container) along with their own dinnerware, cups, etc. This way you’ll have a great mix of foods and drinks. Plus, there will be very little clean up or waste afterward. Check out these green picnic tips.

18. Remember the sunscreen. But not just any sunscreen, you need to choose a non-toxic sunscreen so you aren’t polluting your skin or the environment.

19. Drink, but don’t waste water. Your body needs water to stay healthy and hydrated. So you need to drink water. Don’t waste it though. Any “leftover water” can be used to water plants, give to your pets, etc. Just be aware of what you are doing and you will probably save quite a bit.

20. Unplug. Even if you missed this challenge on the 4th of July, it doesn’t mean you too can’t make a personal commitment to unplug more and reconnect with family and friends. Declare your independence from technology.

Image by Ben

21. Since you are going to unplug, get outside! That’s right, I saved this one for last, but it doesn’t mean it isn’t important. It’s key not only for your health, but your peace of mind to get outside, breathe in some fresh air and enjoy nature a little bit. Go for a hike, a walk, a bike ride, relax in the pool, sit on the porch…whatever you do, just get outside for a bit every day.

There you have it. 25 simple eco-friendly tips to help you get through the summer. If you have any personal favorites, let me know. I’d be happy to hear what eco-friendly things you’ve got planned for the summer. Have a great one and as I always say, have a biofriendly day!

Image by Tambako

Well, the week has come and gone so this edition of Biofriendlyblog’s Weekly Greens will be a Saturday Edition. Now, if you are anything like me you try and keep up with your RSS feed, twitter feeds, FB feeds and other sites that give you the latest and greatest. Unfortunately we’re not always able to keep up. So, for a little dose of green at the end of the week, here is this week’s Weekly Greens:

1. How to Plan and Plant an Organic Community Garden: If you don’t want additional additives or pesticides on or in the food you are eating, then starting an organic community garden might be perfect for you. It’ll take some work, but in the long run, all who contributed will be able to reap the rewards. Yummy rewards!

2. Alternatives to lawns for better water conservation: We’ve become so accustomed to grass in front yards that we sometimes don’t consider the better alternatives. In a time when natural resources need to be conserved, planting yards with native trees, flowers, etc. or even creating an edible garden can go a long way. Beautiful and environmentally-friendly all in one.

3. Scientists Make a Plan to Block Out the Sun to Stop Climate Change: Well, that sounds pretty dramatic, don’t you think? To add to that, such drastic measures could apparently result in humans never seeing a blue sky again. Hmmm…I think on an immediate basis we can all think of other emission lowering actions we can adapt into our lives.

4. Components of a Sustainable Business Culture: Many times executives are looking for a quick fix and in this day and age they view sustainability as that fix. In reality it should be part of a change…part of their sustainable business culture.

5. Architects Imagine a Utopian Paris in 2100, a Little Warmer and a Whole Lot Greener: Some cities are taking great strides to make changes that will make them greener, more walkable and keep them alive and flourishing even with climate changes. Take a look at what Paris is planning.

6. Oil Rigs: The Salty Future of Sustainable Housing: Speaking of where things are heading in the future. Is sustainable housing on oil rigs that far fetched? What about reusing/refurbishing other buildings and existing properties to provide sustainable living environments? Instead of building new, how about rebuilding the old?

7. Future planes to get a ‘magic safety skin’: There are so many ideas when it comes to the future of transportation. Since we know airplanes aren’t going to become a “thing of the past” anytime soon, check out this idea which would make flying not only safer, but a lot greener too. (Of course, in the meantime, a little Green Plus™ could make a nice dent on those emissions.)

8. New ‘shock wave’ engine could revolutionize hybrid vehicles: That’s a pretty big statement in it’s own right, but this new Wave Disk generator is lighter and more efficient than traditional combustion engines. Apparently they will also be able to reduce emissions by up to 90%! Awesome!

There you are…a few of the many, many green and environmental articles that caught my eye. And in case you missed it, check out 8 Environmentally-Friendly Ways to Lift Your Spirits! You may just find a tip, or two, that you can use to help brighten your weekend or week ahead.  Don’t forget to give you and your family some unplugged time to enjoy the great outdoors!

To check out more green, environmental and other interesting information, follow me on Twitter and check out my Biofriendlyblog Daily. Have a green and biofriendly weekend!

When it comes to going green there are many different steps you can take. You can do all kinds of things including cutting down your energy use, recycling, minimizing your water usage, cleaning with natural products, eating organic and locally grown food, etc. But in honor of my Irish roots, I figured now would be a good time to share 3 simple ways to go green Irish style.

1) Plant shamrock or clover: The shamrock is a widely-recognized icon associated with the Irish and in particular with St. Patrick’s Day. As you are probably well aware, people wear green or shamrocks as part of the St. Patrick’s Day tradition.

Image by vawa_92

But this year, instead of wearing a shamrock, you can go green by planting shamrocks or clover. This way you are bringing a new plant to life and you’ll have a little bit of Irish growing throughout the spring. Here are some facts and information about growing shamrocks/clover. And you never know, if luck is with you, you might end up planting a four-leaf clover!

2) Green up your food and drink. Many people in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day add a little bit of green color to their food. You can do this literally or discover the wonderful tastes of naturally green and/or organic foods.

If you are set on having a green beer, choose a good organic or locally brewed beer as your base. There are also many green food and wine options to choose from for a great meal. Needless to say, there is no shortage of ways to make your food and drinks green!

Image by Jaymi Heimbuch

For those of you looking for an appetizer or other dish using the “poster child” of Irish beers, Guinness®, here are a few recipes worth checking out. Besides, scientists have recently come up with some new technology which could create a more eco-friendly head on your Guinness.

Image by TiM_BiG

3) Get outside. Go to a parade, attend a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in town, have a picnic in the park, take the dog for a walk, go to a local festival, etc. While tradition has people attending celebrations all over the world, simply getting outdoors is a great way to go green. Spring is in the air, so it’s the perfect time to go outside and find some green!

Image by andreavallejos

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day and in celebration of going green Irish style, here’s a little Irish blessing:

“May your pockets be heavy and your heart be light,
May good luck pursue you each morning and night.”

And please keep this in mind, being green isn’t reserved for the Irish or for St. Patrick’s Day. These are steps you can take every single day to help improve your life and be a little greener. What steps are you taking to go green?

Image by joinash

For the sake of conservation, there are probably a wide variety of daily habits and routines we could amend and in some cases do without. Just because our parents taught us to do it and their parents taught them to do it, doesn’t mean we need to follow suit. Conservation has to start at home and what better way to start than to review your daily habits and routines?

a) Brushing your teeth: Now I’m not saying to skip brushing your teeth all together, but there are simple actions you can take that can promote conservation while brushing. Turn off the water while you are actively brushing your teeth. Use baking soda or make your own organic toothpaste, instead of using store bought toothpaste.

Image by fatherspoon

b) Washing dishes: Skip the “pre-wash” before putting your dishes into the dishwasher. Just load your dishes in and once your dishwasher is full, run the dishwasher. Don’t run a cycle if it’s only half full. If you have to choose between hand washing and using the dishwasher, opt for the dishwasher. You’ll save time, water and money.

Image by billaday

If you don’t have a dishwasher, use one side of the sink to scrub and the other side to rinse. Add water to the sink, then use biodegradable or vegetable-based soap and elbow grease to get your dishes clean.

c) Transportation: Many people are stuck in the same routine day in, day out when it comes to how they get around. Why not switch it up? Conserve a little. Instead of driving to work on your own, car-pool. Rather than fighting traffic and wasting gas, take the train. Instead of driving to the store for one or two items, walk or ride your bike.

Image by Loren Sztajer

d) Washing Clothes: Just like with the dishwasher, only run a cycle when it is full. Use cold water instead of warm or hot. Your clothes get just as clean without having to pay to heat your water. If you can, hang your clothes up to dry. Although I wouldn’t recommend that in the middle of winter.

Here are a few more tried and true tips for earth-friendly laundry.

e) Taking a shower or bath: People tend to use less water when taking a shower than when taking a bath. If you time yourself, you can be in and out of the shower in no time flat. Another good tip is to turn the water off while you soap up. No reason to have water running down the drain if you aren’t using it.

f) Putting Gray Water to Use: When it comes to “gray water”, people need to get out of the habit of tossing the baby out with the bathwater. In other words, rather than watching the water go down the drain, there are ways you can put gray water to good use.

Image by phil wood photo

g) Don’t Simply Turn Off, Unplug: Over the years the idea of convenience has sometimes taken a front seat to conservation. There are many things we leave plugged in for convenience sake. But in all honesty, it’s really not THAT convenient to do so.

Take the various appliances you have on your kitchen counter, in addition to turning them off when you are done using them, unplug them. Keep computers, printers, stereos, etc connected to power cords and use the power strip to turn these electronics off.

Image by stantontcady

Here are a few more energy-saving tips.

h) Unplug your kids: The same basic theory applies for your kids, esp in terms of unplugging them. It doesn’t do a kid any good to keep them “plugged in” to the television, video games, etc. They need to get out and do things. They want to be creative, do projects, they need exercise, need to run around, need to burn off their stored up energy, etc. So conserve your power and use theirs…unplug your kids!

Image by biofriendlyblog

Now we all know there are many different daily routines we follow. The ones I listed here are just a few basic ones that might help get you thinking about your daily routines. So, take a few moments to review your own. What simple ways could you improve your daily routine in favor of conservation?