As you begin making your resolution list for 2009, you may want to consider doing something that betters both you and the environment - such as going green. The following is a list that can help:
- Green Your Home - An estimated one-fifth of all energy used in the United States is consumed by residential homes. Help lower this number by replacing your light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs and using tankless water heaters. This will help you save energy and another form of green - money.
- Green Your Work - Have a plant in your office? If not, you may want to think about purchasing one to help clean your office air, as well as help make your coworkers smile.
- Green Your Car - Hybrid vehicles are available in two-door and four-door sedan and sport utility models. Carpooling with coworkers is another great option for traveling green.
- Green Your Town - Participate in recycling programs if you don't already do so. If your community doesn't currently offer a recycling program, check with your city officials to find out how to go about implementing one.
- Green Your Holidays - The key to a greener holiday is to think reusable. With the holiday season fast approaching, think of ways you and your loved ones can celebrate in a cleaner and greener environment.
Shop green this year by purchasing gifts that are durable - such as electric shavers, refillable pens, cloth napkins, rollerblades, or bicycles.
When it comes to wrapping gifts, try to use bags which you can then reuse later on, or paper that you can easily recycle. If you have to ship your purchased gifts, use biodegradable starch packing peanuts or old packing materials.
There are many simple things we can to make our lives greener. For more information on ways to live green, visit www.epa.gov/earthday/tips.htm. Or learn about Regions' LifeGreen checking products and savings accounts that can help you be a little more green.