When we think of home, we often envision a house, apartment, or condo. A warm fireplace, a beloved lazyboy, a cozy ambiance, and the friends and family we love. Extended from our actual home, is our city, our state, and our country. Very rarely, when we think about home, do we think about the lovely green orb that each and every individual on this planet together, call home.
We take good care of our houses; constantly cleaning, furnishing, decorating, and remodeling. We do our absolute best to supply a happy ambiance and environment for our guests and family, but in the process, have forgotten about a greater environment. An environment that requires just as much attention and care as our houses do, and is receiving very, very little of it.
Phrases like “saving our planet” and “going eco-friendly” are daunting sayings, in that we assume involve massive changes and daily sacrifices to the lifestyle we have worked so hard to achieve. But what we often don’t realize is how much can be done without having to nearly change a thing. Alternative methods of living are much less reliant on making sacrifices and much more reliant on simply choosing more sustainable methods of living. By using these methods, we avoid giving up those things that make our lifestyles so enjoyable today, while ensuring those who come next can enjoy them too.
It is simply a matter of knowing how. Here are just a few examples to make your life better by using alternative, eco-friendly methods of living. Buying locally sourced food cuts out resources used for transportation, supports your community, and is healthier for you and your family. Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs may cost a few extra dollars initially, but they can last twice as long as normal bulbs. Driving fuel-efficient cars, or using biodiesel fuel, can save you hundreds of dollars in gas, is better for your engine, and expels less toxic fumes into the community you call home.
Best part is, you don’t have to live in hippie-central to do it. Living green is more than feasible in places other than just Portland or San Francisco. You can find eco-loving businesses anywhere; whether it’s a sustainable nutritionist in Arizona or an eco-friendly restaurant supplier in Detroit. The point is, becoming eco-friendly is completely feasible in every state, for every person, in nearly every way. The best part is that the benefits and positive results can be seen almost immediately in your life and your community. Be the first domino in a change reaction, and bring those around you to make a difference your future generations will be grateful for.
The durability and beauty of your house depends on the care and attention you give it today: for you and the ones who will inherit it after. The earth is only an extension of that home.
For your bright future, for your stunning planet, and for all those who will come after you; make the smallest footprint you can on this planet. It’s never too late to start making your future the cleanest, and greenest, it can be.
