People are really putting the pressure on our earth and it’s resources. We take everything we possibly can from it but never think about putting anything back into it except or garbage. It’s not hard to think we are pushing our luck and at our current rate of expending our energy resources things could be very different for our grandchildren. One change that is obvious to everyone is climate change.  Some would argue it doesn’t exist but our wide swings in weather patterns make it a likely occurrence in most peoples minds. We are hurting more and more as the planet warms up.

Of course some people have taken steps to cause as little damage to the earth as they can. Organizations exist that try to spread the word about why we should take care of our environment and also how to do it. It has now become popular to lead an alternative lifestyle and go green. The green lifestyle trys to establish a system that recycles almost everything we take from the earth. Many people are taking action but have you?

Little things make a big difference so don’t think you cannot have a positive affect on the natural elements all around you. If you want to live a healthy alternative lifestyle, preserve the earth and save some money while you’re at it check out these ten ideas you can start right away. 1.  Concentrate on saving energy.  Older style light bulbs are really inefficient.   Replace them with the new fluorescent bulbs when the burn out.  You’ll use less energy and they will last a really long time. Always unplug any electric appliance that you’re not using.  Even though they are off they still use a little electricity and that can really add up. A huge part of the energy expended by washing your clothes is just for heating up the water.  Use cold water whenever you can. When weather allows for it try hanging your clothes up to dry instead of using your dryer. While at work get rid of that old paper eating fax machine and use an online fax service. They’ll save you 3 ways – less paper, ink and electricity expense.

2.  Use less gasoline and you’ll be healthier. If possible park your car and bike or walk to work. Of course you’ll save money on all your related auto expenses and you’ll help your heart by getting daily exercise. If this isn’t possible because you live a long way from where you work you could always take public transportation or think about simply moving closer to your job’s location. The money you save will add up slowly to a huge amount in the long run. 3.  Whenever possible borrow what you need instead of buying. That may sound weird but hear me out.  If you like to read don’t go buy your own copy of your book, borrow one from your local library. This method works great for movie lovers too. Sure you may want a few of your favorites for your collection but rent the rest. Get around the neighborhood and introduce yourself. Once you get to know everyone set up a system of tool and appliance sharing so you all don’t have a garage full of the same equipment that only gets used a few times a year.