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Cutting back on water use will help save a scarce natural resource and also cut back on your water bill. By following these simple 10 tips to save water, you can save hundreds of dollars each year.

1. Shut off the water while brushing your teeth. This can save a gallon of water at each brushing.

2. Stick a brick in your toilet tank. Less water will be used in each flush.

3. Wash full loads in the washing machine. This can save hundreds of gallons each year.

4. Shorter showers save gallons of water. Read the rest of this entry »

There are a few good ways to lessen your own personal impact on the environment, such as conserving your energy usage and not using more water than necessary. One other great way to help the environment is to purchase environmentally friendly products, however, and doing so is a lot easier than many people think.

Next time you are out shopping for things that you usually shop for, take a minute to look at the package. Looking for things that are made from recycled materials is relatively simple, and it can make a major difference in how much Read the rest of this entry »

Housecleaning is something that tops the list of necessary evils when it comes healthy living. A clean house decreases allergens in the air and eliminates harmful bacteria. Cleaners, however, can contain toxic chemicals that are harmful. Five chemicals to avoid include:

Phthalates
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors and mainly impact males. One side effect of phthalate ingestion is reduced sperm count. These toxic chemicals are found in scented products such as air fresheners and dish soap. The toxins are ingested through inhalation and skin contact.

Triclosan
Found in antibacterial, liquid dishwashing Read the rest of this entry »

When children want to help their family recycle, it can seem like more effort than it is worth. Below are five simple ways kids can contribute to recycling efforts.

Have children collect recyclables from elderly neighbors; these folks often cannot get to the recycling center themselves, but would like to help the environment.

Allow children to decorate the recycling bins at home, assuming that the recycling company is not going to complain. The kids will have a blast and recycling will seem more attractive Read the rest of this entry »

Preserving the environment for future generations requires more than simply practicing good habits–we must educate younger generations about the importance of sustainability. One very important aspect of environmental sustainability is recycling. When teaching children how to recycle, it is important that they understand both how to practice good habits as well as why such habits are so important.

The first step in teaching recycling is leading by example. When children see their parents taking active steps to live an environmentally conscious lifestyle, they are more likely to mimic the behavior. However, education involves more than mere demonstration. Parents Read the rest of this entry »