How I try to be green every day
Happy Earth Day!
Here's a random list of ways that I try to be green every day.
- I telecommute. A lot of work I do is done 'remotely' or online as much as I can.
- I carpool as much as possible.
- I drive an old car. There are significant environmental costs to both manufacturing a new automobile and adding your old car to the ever-growing collective junk heap.
- I do a lot of walking.
- I recycle. Cans, paper, bottles, computers, electronics, water, etc.
- I use solar energy (directly from sunlight) to charge my every day batteries that power my portable electronics, cell phone, laptop, and lights in my computer room.
- I turn off lights when the room isn't being occupied.
- I switched to high efficiency fluorescent tubes and LED lights.
- My servers are on a timed schedule and power down when unused for a long period of time.
- I vote for energy star rated efficiency products when I make my purchases.
- My web-server is completely powered by solar and wind energy.
- I use the dark google.
- I use rechargeable batteries instead of disposables for almost everything except a watch or two, and those last for years before they need to be replaced.
- I take short showers.
- I eat home grown vegetables and fruits.
- I unplug AC adapters when the electronics won't be used for a while.
- I put on an extra layer when it gets cold at home vs using a heater.
- I try to pass out virtual contact/business cards vs paper cards.
- I don't ask for a receipt at starbucks.
- I mulch my grass clippings to use as fertilizer.
- I pay with e-bills and use virtual statements.
- I use re-usable water bottles made of aluminum, which itself is completely recyclable.
- I refurbish old computers.
- I re-use my plastic bags.