Spring Time, Green Time

Spring is just around the corner. It feels magnificent outside, with light, cool breezes accompanied by warm rays of sunshine. Plant life turns green again and colorful flowers bloom. Let's show our appreciation for earth's beautiful and vital environment by making simple changes in our lives. We all contribute to the polluting of the earth, but in numbers we can make a difference to lessen that amount.

Here are a few simple things that anyone can easily do:

Start replacing the bulbs in your home with energy-efficient compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs. They can last up to 10 times longer than regular bulbs, and use way less energy. It will save money on your electric bill!

Plant something on Earth Day. Plants help clean and produce the air we breathe. Visit earthday.org to find more creative things to do on Earth Day.

Unplug cell chargers and other electronics when not in use. Even though they are turned off, they still use electricity when plugged in. You'd be surprised at the amount of energy you can save.

Buy reusable sacks for your groceries. Plastic bags are terrible for the environment because they end up in lands fills and harm animals.

If you are in the market for a new home appliance, make sure it has the Energy Star label. These appliances use less energy, so you won't spend as much on your electric bill.

Getting a new car? Think about a styling, fuel-efficient vehicle (yes, they exist). More miles per gallon equal less money spent at the pump.

Enjoy the spring weather - cut off the A/C and open the windows. It will feel refreshing!

Going on a trip soon? Take a relaxing train ride and enjoy the scenery along the way. Less fuel pollutes the environment by taking a train (or bus) compared to a car or airplane.

Buy organic and local when you can. These types of food contribute way less pollution to the environment than the food that travels a long way to end up in your town. Plus, you are supporting your local economy and promoting healthy family farms.

Spread the word. Tell others about the smart decisions you've made to help the environment and even how you've saved money! They will be more inclined to do so as well.