Even though flying isn't the greenest way to travel, sometimes it's inevitable. According to the website seatguru.com, there is a difference in the type of airplane you choose to book your next flight on. MD-82 planes are considered inefficient because while they were designed to last a long time (about 30 years), they release more emissions than more modern planes. The most fuel-efficient planes are the Airbus A319 and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner: They are about 15 to 20 percent more fuel-efficient than similar aircrafts.

Many communities face water restrictions due to long-term droughts. One way to keep lush landscaping and save water is to promote "deep water" instead of frequent watering of plants. Deep water is when you fully saturate the ground for water-loving plants. You do this type of watering less frequently. Over time, the plants get enough water from deep watering, and they learn to send roots deeper into the ground to search for water, which helps to develop drought tolerance.

Summer is a time when many of us travel to new cities or destinations, and it often means renting a car. But if you want to save money -- and the hassle of paying to park and manage a rental car -- consider researching public transportation options in your destination city. It's also very green: In 2011, U.S. public transportation (trains, buses and ferries) saved 450 million gallons of gas from 500 urban areas. Most cities have websites that show you public transportation options, including maps, schedules and planners to make your visit a breeze.