Today there are a number of ways to go green, here are a few examples of what you can do to both save money and help the environment.
Replace all light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. These bulbs convert a majority of energy they use into light unlike incandescent, which convert much of the energy consumed into heat. They last longer and use less power saving you money.
Unplug anything that glows even after it is turned off. Any item still projecting a tiny light after it is shut off, such as a television, computer, printer, or even a cell phone charger, can utilize energy even though they are off.
Recycling old electronics can reduce the amount of chemicals and heavy metals put into the earth when they are thrown away. Look into programs, which buy old cell phones and remember to recycle batteries if able to as well. For more information visit the Saskatchewan Waste Electronic Equipment Program at www.sweepit.ca.
Fixing leaky faucets or toilets, which can waste an exorbitant amount of water, is usually easily done. Repairing leaks saves money not only in the water bill, but in possible water damage repairs depending on the leak.
When washing laundry or dishes, make sure you are washing a full load. Combining half loads of laundry, using cold water for laundry, and using short cycles for both machines can save time, water, and money. Laundry detergent specifically for cold water washing is available to ensure a clean result.
During the summer if drying clothes consider hang drying them. This cuts back on energy costs, reduces the likelihood of accidently putting something in the dryer that shouldn't be, and comes away smelling fresh.
Searching for drafty areas around the house can be fixed through caulking, sealing, or weather stripping these spots will keep your house warmer and allow you to turn down the thermostat.
Having a programmable thermostat is also a recommended green tip. They can be set for a lower temperature during the day when no one is home and automatically turn up at a particular time to ensure a warm house after returning from work.
When buying new appliances look for energy efficient items. Hot water heaters to toilets, fridges, and dryers almost any appliance you could need today comes in an energy efficient model.
An easy way to conserve energy and cut back on power costs is to shut off lights when they are not needed. Try to use natural lighting as much as possible and when not in a room to turn that light off.
When going shopping take along your own reusable bags and avoid using plastic bags, which do not biodegrade. They will break down over time, but the time this takes is currently unknown. Scientists have estimated anywhere between 200 to 1,000 years; but, were only created 50 years ago so there is no definitive answer.
Driving the speed limit and combining errands for the week into one trip if possible will conserve fuel and limit the amount of carbon dioxide expelled from travel.
Try to car pool, if possible, to and from work or when attending sports events. If the destination is two miles or less think about walking or riding a bike.
If raising an infant consider using only cloth diapers or even using them in combination of disposable diapers. One reusable cloth diaper a day eliminates 365 disposable diapers a year.
Making your own household cleaners such as vinegar, lemons, cornstarch, baking soda, or non-petroleum based scent free soap can all work in cleaning dirt and grime in the home.
While cleaning the house try to use cloth instead of paper towel. Old socks, shirts, and towels can all be reused.
Utilize reusable travel mugs and water bottles. Avoid disposable containers whenever possible.
By simply turning off the faucet while brushing ones teeth or washing ones face can keep water consumption and costs down.
When given the option for both receiving and paying bills consider selecting paperless. Bills will be sent to ones email or through text message instead of in the mail.
Finally utilize the local recycling program to make a difference. The Town of Carlyle's curbside pick-up has been doing well. In a recent town newsletter, dated December 2012, it was revealed that residents "have diverted 21,358 kilograms of fibre (paper and cardboard), and 5,066 kilograms of plastic and tin from the landfill."
This means over 26,000 kilograms of recyclable items were properly disposed of between April and November of 2012. The town was very excited when comparing these numbers to Oxbow and Carnduff because they found Carlyle statistically is recycling more than both communities put together.
