4/12/14

While taking a cross-country flight is not the greenest option to get from point A to point B, it is inevitable -- at least until solar-powered planes actually become a reality. Two ways to green your flight are to simply pack light, and choose a nonstop flight. The heavier the plane, the more fuel it uses, so bringing less with lighter suitcases actually goes a long way toward reducing the carbon footprint of the flight. A layover or connecting flight can add about 10 percent more to your carbon emissions, so going nonstop is a faster and greener way to go.

4/11/14

On average, the television and ancillary devices that go with it (DVD player, cable box, etc.) account for about 8 to 10 percent of a household's overall energy bill. One way to help cut electric waste is always make sure to turn the TV off when it's not being used. But one not-so-obvious tip is to reduce the brightness of the television. By going to the settings function and reducing the brightness level, you can help make your TV more energy-efficient. Most manufacturers pre-set their TVs with the highest brightness setting possible. A simple switch can help you save money without any real noticeable difference in viewing quality.

4/10/14

Now that spring has sprung, many of us have gardening and landscaping on our minds. When choosing new plants to make your home look amazing, consider buying native plants. Native plants are exactly what they sound like: They are indigenous to the region of the country you live and do more than just look good. They are plants that enhance the wild ecosystem and help bring biodiversity to the environment. These plants are useful to wild animals and beneficial insects. When you choose native plants, you get more bang for your buck: Your yard looks good, and it helps the environment. To know which plants are native to your area, visit findnativeplants.com.