How to Go Green

Co-authored by Natalie Kay Smith and Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA

Last Updated: February 16, 2023 Fact Checked

Going green is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint and help the planet. Being
green is all about reducing how many resources you use, reusing items when you can, and
recycling items that can’t be reused. If you’re ready to go green, start by changing your
personal habits and giving your home a green makeover. Additionally, change your habits at
work and on the go to be as green as possible.
1.

1
Carry a reusable water bottle so you will not need bottled water. While bottled water is
convenient, it is also really bad for the environment. Not only does it create trash, but it also
uses more resources because it’s shipped to the store. To be more eco-friendly, make it a
habit to carry a reusable water bottle with you everywhere so that you can drink water on the
go.[1]
 Plastic bottles are usually the lightest and most convenient. Look for one that says
it’s BPA free.
 You can also find aluminum and glass water bottles that are a great option if you
don’t like using plastic.
2.

2
Use reusable bags while you’re shopping. Shopping bags make it easy to carry your items
home, but they also pollute the planet. Skip the store’s shopping bags and bring your own
instead. Use a backpack or tote that you already own, or purchase a couple of reusable bags
from the checkout area at your local grocery store.[2]
 You can use your reusable bags at most stores, including clothing or bookstores.
 Keep your bags in your car so that it’s less likely you’ll forget them.
3.
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Reuse items to save them from the landfill. Before you throw something away, look for
ways you might reuse it. Try re-purposing items or making green crafts. This will help you
keep trash out of the landfill.[3]
 For example, instead of throwing away a jar, you might use it as a glass, vase, or
storage container.
 Similarly, you could use a piece of cardboard to make a wreath.
 You can find ideas for green crafts by searching online.
4.

4
Reduce the amount of time you spend using electronics. While electronics are really fun
and likely help you feel connected to your friends, they also use up a lot of energy. Schedule
breaks from your electronics so you can use them less. During your breaks, do something fun
like going for a walk, playing a game with your friends, or pursuing a hobby.[4]
 Invite your friends to connect with you in real life. For instance, instead of playing
online video games together, go to a local park.
5.

5
Skip products that have a lot of packaging. Products that come with a lot of packaging are
bad for the environment because the packaging is waste. Even if you recycle the package, it’s
still an unnecessary waste of resources. Do your best to pick products that have as little
packaging as possible. This can keep more trash out of landfills and save natural resources.
 For example, let’s say you’re buying a notebook for school. If you’re choosing
between a notebook that’s wrapped in plastic and one that isn’t, pick the
unwrapped notebook.
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