Advancements in education, research and technology have taught us that protecting the earth in whatever small ways we can goes a long way toward keeping the environment healthy. More and more people are making the commitment to protect the environment in whatever ways they can, and going green is now easier than ever.

Making the commitment to go green is an important step in protecting the environment, but the question is where do you start? Here are some simple tips for living a more environmentally-conscious life. 

1. Reduce your chemical cleaners

One simple way to make a significant impact on the environment is to swap out your cleaning chemicals for ones that are green and organic. These cleaners still pack a punch to dirt and grime but are safer for the planet. Bonus points if you choose one with a recyclable container! Some organic cleaners include:

●      Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day All-Purpose Cleaner

●      Method All-Purpose Cleaner with Powergreen Technology

●      Seventh Generation All Purpose Cleaner

●      And many more


2. Forego Meat Once Per Week

The simple change of abstaining from meat consumption once per week is an easy swap that makes a big impact. Meat production requires tons of land, chemicals, water and more. Choosing to go meatless one day will help cut down on the resources used to produce meat for food. For the days you do eat meat, choose sustainably raised meats that are raised organically!


3. Donate Your Unwanted Items

Do you have a bunch of clutter in your home? Get rid of it the green way–and help others in need–by choosing to donate unused items in your home rather than tossing them in the trash. Donate items like clothing, shoes, food, household items and more!


4. Use Reusable Plates, Cups, and Flatware

While disposable dinnerware sure is convenient, the waste that comes from these one-time-use items builds up in landfills. You can eliminate this waste by using reusable dishes for your meals.


5. Start Recycling

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to go green is to start recycling. Dedicate a bin in your home for recyclable materials like glass, plastics, paper and more and commit to keeping items out of the landfill. Many cities and municipalities even offer pickup services! Check with your city’s government website or Waste Management to see what recycling services and resources are available in your area.


6. Ditch Disposable Water Bottles

That’s right, even the recyclable kind! One-time-use plastic water bottles are a huge problem in landfills and are a huge expense on your wallet. Instead of buying bottles of water, invest in a good BPA free reusable water bottle and get a water purifier to use in your home.


7. Only Buy What You Need

How many times have you thrown away food that you meant to eat, but just didn’t? One easy way to save money and help the environment is to plan your meals, shop with a list, and only buy what you need. Make a commitment to consume what you purchase within a week, so you can stop throwing your money in the trash!


8. Try Carpooling

Do you have a work colleague that lives nearby? Why not cut down on carbon emissions and gas costs by sharing a ride together? Carpooling is a great way to go green while also spending time with a buddy at the same time–and it doesn’t have to stop at work. Start a carpool for your kids school commute, or share a car with a few neighbors to go to the grocery store once per week.


9. Go Paperless

How many bills do you get in the mail per week? All of that clutter is not only annoying to keep up with–it’s also bad for the environment. If you can, opt into online billing to cut down on paper waste–and hey, you’ll save a stamp or two while you’re at it!


10. Switch to an Eco-Friendly Pest Control and Lawn Care

Traditionally, pest control and lawn care involves harsh, dangerous chemicals and other methods that aren’t healthy for the earth. Technology has evolved to allow for more eco-conscious methods to come about, which are safer not only for the environment but for your family and pets too. 

Going green doesn’t have to be a drastic change in your normal routine and lifestyle–these small changes are a great first step to make!

Brent is the owner of Lawn Doctor of Denver, Colorado Springs and Pueblo – a locally and family-owned and operated lawn care business that has served the metro Denver area for over 40 years. Lawn Doctor is the go-to for the best eco-friendly, green lawn care and their goal is to give customers the healthiest, greenest lawn possible using healthier products with fewer pesticides and synthetics.