Individuals can increase their chances of success of going green by informing household members of their intentions and by implementing changes gradually. Unwanted items can be recycled or given away instead of being thrown away. Individuals can further the cause of going green by eliminating unnecessary paper from their lives. Replacing appliances with models that are more eco-friendly is another major step in the right direction.
Going green can be very difficult for an individual who lives with others but who makes the commitment alone. It is always best to communicate the intention to other members of the household. By explaining the aims and benefits, it may be possible to get them to participate and contribute to the effort. If not, they are still more likely to be supportive of a person's efforts if they are informed of how the changes will affect them.
Trying to go green in every aspect of life at once can be overwhelming. Those who make the decision to live more eco-friendly lives are likely to be most successful when changes are implemented gradually. Starting with small yet significant changes that do not necessarily require drastic lifestyle adjustments can be best. Examples can include reducing the length of showers a minute at a time and turning off water while brushing one's teeth.
Recycling is a big part of going green. The problem with maintaining a recycling regimen is that many people decide to recycle without a plan. It is important to consider is how and where the refuse will be stored. Then individuals need to make plans for the collection or delivery of the waste. When these details are not considered, individuals often find themselves with a unwanted matter that they get tired of dealing with, and it ends up in the garbage.
Giving can be as beneficial as recycling. The consumption and production of goods can be greatly reduced if more secondhand items are made available. When people no longer want their possessions, instead of throwing them away or hoarding them, it is best to give those items to individuals in need. Other means of disposing of unwanted goods is by donating them to charities or to thrift stores.
Cutting down on the use of paper is a way of going green that can also double as a housekeeping tip. Individuals can forgo print publications, such as newspapers and magazines, by reading online. Instead of receiving paper statements, many creditors and service providers offer the option of electronic statements.
Individuals who are going green should consider their current cleaning habits. Those chores that involve unnecessary energy consumption should be replaced with more eco-friendly methods. For example, begin dusting with a cloth instead of a hand-held vacuum or using a broom instead of an electric sweeper. Learning to make cleaning supplies from simple household items is another important change that individuals can make.
Appliance replacement is an ideal opportunity to make significant progress toward going green. When appliances break, they should be replaced with energy and water efficient models. It is important to realize that inefficient use of appliances is counterproductive. Machines such as dishwashers and washing machines should not be used for only a few items. Furthermore, if the weather and location are permissive, dryers should should not be used at all.