12 Steps To Going Green In 2012 From Worldwatch Institute

For many, a new year means a new start for making changes, often including eating better, working out more, and improving your relationships with others. Whether you’re getting back on track or beginning a new phase in life, take time to do not only for yourself, but the planet.

According to WorldWatch.org, the United Nations has designated 2012 as the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All.  While the thought of carbon footprints maybe daunting to some, there are some very simple steps that we all can take to go green and impact our environment. Here are 12 simple steps that can put you on your way to going green in 2012:

1. Recycle

There are countless recycling programs in cities and towns throughout the United States. Though some cities do not make it mandatory for homes and businesses to recycle, you can self-motivate by placing a container next to your trash or printer to separate bottles, cans and paper from the rest of your garbage to be recycled.

2. Turn off the lights

Leaving lights on when you don’t need them not only increases your monthly bill, but wastes energy. The simple solution will help you two fold, helping out both you and the planet. So turn lights off during bright daylight hours, and when you will be away for an extended period of time.

3. Make the Switch

If you have not already, get out with the old and in with the new by switching your incandescent light bulbs to the more energy efficient compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) which use 20 percent to 30 percent of the energy incandescent bulbs use. LED bulbs are another alternative, using only 10 percent the energy incandescent bulbs use.

4. Turn on the tap

Though big business for many companies, plastic water bottles create huge problems for the environment. The cost to transport these bottles across the country could fuel an estimated 1.5 million cars in a year. Also, only about 25 percent of water bottles sold are recycled.

If that isn’t enough to deter you, consider this: According to WorldWatch.org, 10 of the most popular brands or bottled water were found to have a  range of pollutants, including pharmaceuticals, fertilizer residue, and arsenic. So the next time you need to rehydrate, consider using a glass or fill up a reusable water bottle with simple tap water.

5. Turn down the heat

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, consumers can
save up to 15 percent on heating and cooling bills by adjusting their
thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit for eight hours. Try turning down your thermostat before you leave for work, or consider a programmable thermostat to control heating settings. 

6. Support food recovery programs  

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization reports that approximately one third of all food produced for human consumption is lostor wasted, including food that is often edible but cosmetically imperfect. You can help make a difference by donating unneeded nonperishable food items to your local food bank or shelter. Also, take the time to encourage your local grocery stores, restaurant, bakeries and other entities to partner with food rescue organizations, homeless shelters and
food banks. 

7. Buy local  

Supporting your local farmers helps them not only stay in business, but author and consumer advocate Michael Shuman argues that local small businesses are more sustainable because they are often more accountable
for their actions, have smaller environmental footprints, and innovate to meet local conditions. Try farmers markets and local farms to purchase produce, eggs, dairy and meat. These items are typically fresher and more flavorful, too, according to WorldWatch.com. 

8. Get out and ride 

It’s no secret that carpooling and riding the bus are great ways to reduce harmful emissions into the environment. More and more people are trading in their gas pedals for bike pedals, too. Many cities also have a bike share program and have included bike lanes on many of their main streets. So,
when possible, consider biking it instead. 

9. Share a car 

According to the University of California Transportation Center, each shared car replaces 15 personally owned vehicles and in 2009 car-sharing was credited with reducing U.S. carbon emissions by more than 482,000 tons.   Even if you do not get rid of your car, there is much benefit to car-sharing programs when you can find them. Take the time to see if there may be one in your area. 

10. Plant a garden  

Planting your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs is a great way to encourage eating healthy. Many have even been able to take advantage of relatively small spaces to grow food all year round, and still have enough to either sell or donate their produce. Many seeds are can be very inexpensive and
save you from having to make a food purchase elsewhere.

11. Compost  

A great treatment for those new plants is making your own compost; you don’t need to purchase expensive organic treatments from the stores. Your plants will love the extra TLC and you will be cutting down on waste. Visit sites like HowToCompost.org to learn how to create compost, or get more tips to add to your knowledge.   

12. Reduce your meat consumption  

Numerous studies have shown that expansion in raising livestock is putting a strain on the planet because of the mass amount of water and agriculture that is needed to feed the animals. Still, people, particularly Americans, are consuming more and more meat.

With the rapid growth of the world population, that strain on resources will no doubt increase if changes are not made. Many, for this reason as well as others, have decided to go vegetarian or vegan. While this may not be a viable choice for everyone, you may consider just reducing the amount of meat you eat. One meal a day with a vegetarian substitution is a great way to change your habits and the overall amount of consumption in the
country.