Getting Started

You've probably considered going green (and not à la Hulk).

With so much attention from the media and non-profit organizations, the idea of "Green" living, eco-friendly lifestyles, or sustainability may have caught your attention by now. 

It's a hot topic, and for many reasons: cleaner planet, pollution, ozone layer, trash, acid rain, smug, unhealthy food, stressful lifestyles, green construction, recycling, global warming, lower energy bills, or it being the new trend.

Whatever your motivation is, this first step is the most important one, and although it can be a bit overwhelming, worry not! Change takes time, and if done radically, it has a high chance of it being unsuccessful.

A good way to get started is to learn about the current issues that affect you personally, and how you have an impact in your surroundings. You could be leading a green life already, and not even know it! So, first stop is figuring out your Carbon Footprint. These results can give you an idea of how well you're doing already, and which areas you can focus on. Remember, if you're getting started now, and your carbon footprint is pretty high, don't freak out. Really, don't. By taking it step by step you can achieve a nice, eco-friendly lifestyle.

Now, you might be wondering why any of this is important, or if it's even worth it, and that's a valid question. (No need to feel ashamed or guilty for it) Many experts will give you their perspective and well-documented thoughts on the matter, which you'll learn about in due time.

As for now, picture this: Our world population just made it to 7 Billion people (oh, baby!), and given our advances in technology, the number will probably not go down any time soon.

So, 7 Billion people, all in one [relatively] small planet, with a limited amount of resources. By making adjustments, these will have a water drop-like impact on your daily life, and the life of your family members. Remember most of you live in a community, and as social beings, we do tend to learn from one another- thus, the possibility of developing an eco-friendly community increases.
Now, let's say this takes place in several communities, then cities, states, around your country. All it took is a bit of individual effort to make a big change happen. (Yes, we just went from micro to macro in an instant, but it'll start making more sense as we move forward).

So, are you ready to make your first adjustments? AWESOME! 
Here are two ideas to get started:

1) Bag it! These cheap, recycled plastic, or canvas bags are a total #WIN (meaning "great" in "Twitterese") You can find them now almost everywhere, they're on average about $1-$2, and they are incredibly handy (no pun intended). What's cool about them is that you can fold them up and keep them in your car, bag, office, or drawer, without taking much space. Use them for your groceries, lunch, picnics, and any other time when you normally use plastic shopping bags.


2) Bottle it up! Drinking water is one of those very important (and beneficial) things we should do constantly. A good way to avoid using small paper/plastic cups over and over again is by getting your own water bottle. Here's a suggestion, just make sure that what you get is BPA Free. 

See? Two things that are simple enough to get started that have quite the impact! Way to go! You should feel proud of yourself! 

Until next time... :)