I Jumped The Gun

Dangit. My non-characteristic 'Are You Green' post was done too early! Little did I know, but today is Blog Action Day - the day that blog writers across the world unite to publish content about the environment, green issues, etc. Typical - I choose to steer outside my comfort zone, post something that's a little out there for a conservative guy like me, and I do it on the wrong day. Vexing.

So...in the spirit of Blog Action Day, I'm going to post a couple more ideas for you to consider in the name of becoming a pseudo tree hugger. Remember - every little bit helps.

Kill the power - did you know that you're paying a ton of extra money each year just to keep appliances 'ready' in the event that you want to use them. Anything with a big AC adapter (your coffee pot, your printer, your TV, etc.) stays in 'Stand-By' mode if it's left plugged in. That means it's drawing power, you're paying for it, and it's all for nothing. Unplug appliances that you're not using!

Buy local - instead of buying your coffee at Starbucks, buy it at Dilworth Coffee or instead of buying your produce at Harris Teeter, buy it at the produce stand on Providence or Old Monroe. Cheaper prices, better produce, less gasoline used to get it to market - it's a win/win for everyone.

Save your coffee grounds - I typically throw mine out (just being honest) but coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen and are one of the best fertilizers around. Spread them on your plant soil or throw them in your yard. In the event that we ever get rain, it might help.

Stop using anti-bacterial products - the FDA advises that we all stop using this stuff because a) it's no better than regular soap and water and b) we're breeding these super germs that are resistant to almost anything.

Buy the funny looking bulbs - you've seen those weird looking light bulbs that look like soft serve ice cream cones - those are the ones to buy. They cost more up front and we all look at them and say "I'm not paying $6 for two light bulbs". Here's the catch - they last around 10,000 hours - meaning that by the time you factor in the reduced amount of energy they use and the life of the bulb, you've made your money back at 500 hours. For the remaining 9,500 hours, you're saving money (and remember - money saved is money made!).

Buy eco-undies - great undies made from hemp, bamboo - ok forget this one. It's just too much, too soon.

So - there you have it. Save the world one step at a time, feel better about yourself, and save some money in the process.