Going Green at Home

Going Green?  Just what does that mean? 

Living green means making informed decisions of the choices we make everyday.  It’s considering how simply different choices will help us keep and improve our quality of living. 

For example, your daily cup of coffee.  What kind of cup is it in? Is it paper which can be recycled and breaks down, glass which is reusable or Styrofoam which is used once and takes years to decompose?  Paper or plastic?  How many times have we heard that in the grocery store?  Which did you choose? 

Knowing how what we use affects the environment is living green.  It doesn’t have to mean that we are wearing hemp cloths and shoes made from recycled tires.  It means that our consumption decisions are made with long term consideration. Respecting our environment and leaving it better off for our children's children's children's generation is healthy: emotionally and physically. 

When you apply this line of thinking to housing you quickly learn that it can save you money.  It can start with simple things.  Choose low or no VOC (volatile organic compound) paint next time you need to paint a room.  It’s healthier for you and the environment.  When a light bulb burns out, use a CFL (compact fluorescent light) instead of an incandescent one.  It’s shocking how much less energy it uses AND how quickly you adjust to the “green glow”.   As you need to replace appliances choose wisely, consider both the immediate savings in energy consumption and the long term benefits.  Need new carpet?  Maybe hardwood flooring would be a more sustainable choice. 

As a trade ally of the Energy Trust of Oregon I can arrange for a FREE energy audit of your home.  You will receive several CFL bulbs, low flow shower heads and suggestions on how to make your home more efficient and comfortable.