While there's been quite a debate about going green lately, this second installment of our series continues with simple ways you can make a difference without dramatically altering your lifestyle. God created the world to utilize, but also gave us the responsibility to be its caregivers.

A GREENER HOME

• Most Americans emit 9.44 tons of CO2 (carbon dioxide) a year. An average family in Arkansas produces 8,823 pounds of CO2 annually just by taking a 15 minute shower. Simply reducing your shower by a minute can save around 588 pounds of CO2. Installing a low-flow shower head can save 3,773 pounds of CO2.

• Lots of water heaters are set at 140 degrees as default, but 120 degrees provides you with plenty of hot water.

• Don't forget that hanging clothes on the line gives you that unmistakable fresh smell and crisp feel, but it also saves on CO2 in the process.

• Tap water can contain up to a whopping 8 percent lead content. A quick an easy installation of a $30 water filter is better for health, especially for kids and those who may be pregnant, plus it tastes better.

• A dripping faucet can waste 20 gallons of water a day. A leaking toilet - 90,000 gallons a month. Call the local plumber or make it a Saturday project and save money while helping out the environment.

• Buying products in the largest size is not only is cheaper in the long run, but it also uses less packaging.

• Buying local fruits and veggies conserves fuel, reduces pollution, and is healthier than the supermarket alternatives without the wax and pesticides. It also supports our local community which is great thing. Many stores are now also offering organic products.

A GREENER OFFICE

• The greenest paper is no paper at all. In a world of digital equipment, try to utilize desktop folders instead of filing cabinets and Windows Notepad instead of stickies. When having to buy paper at work, be sure and get the recycled kind.

• Standby settings still use power, so turn off the computer at the end of the day. Keep printers, scanners, and peripherals that are only occasionally used unplugged until you need them.

• If you get to-go food at lunch, see if anyone else wants some. Placing a larger order saves on packaging. Bringing a lunch in reusable containers is both greener and healthier.

(Sources thegreenguide.com, green.yahoo.com)

Go Green: Part 1