Archive for January, 2008

January 1, 2008 | Being Green, Lifestyle

Happy New Year!

I can’t think of a better time to begin the switch to more natural, sustainable living, if you haven’t already. Changes can be made gradually, and what a great resolution - to transition to a healthier, more natural lifestyle. You don’t have to throw out the baby with the bath water, but if you haven’t done so already, this is a great time to start making strides to the greener side. Some small changes you can make:

• Switch to organic food with the 12 worst offenders (produce items that absorb the highest level of pesticides)
• Find a local fruit stand (I know, it’s hard this time of year!) and stop by periodically so you can buy locally grown produce
• Stop buying bottled water (this is a big one!). Get a water filter for your sink and invest $10-20 in a stylish reusable travel mug. You’ll save huge amounts of money and keep tons of bottles out of landfills - not to mention the amount of carbon emissions necessary to produce the bottled water.
• As your regular cleaning supplies run out, replace them with natural cleaners. If you don’t trust vinegar and baking soda to start, then switch to brands like Seventh Generation, Ecover, and Method.
• Pick up a few canvas bags and have the bagger use them when you do your grocery shopping. It’ll keep all that bag clutter out of your pantry too.
• And the heartbeat of the green movement: want less, consume less, waste less. Buy in bulk to avoid excess packaging. Use your local library for books you don’t need to own. Do you need 4 pair of black pumps? Maybe you can waste less by paying bills online and canceling magazine subscriptions that you don’t read.

Just some ideas to get you started.