Lots of folks think being “Green” means you have to drastically change your lifestyle. On the contrary, you can make small adjustments to your daily choices and make significant contributions to help our environment. Just remember the 3 R’s.

Reduce — Reducing means to cut down on how much stuff we buy and use less, which coincidentally will save you money.

Reuse – Instead of throwing something out, try to use it for another purpose, donate old items to charity or sell it!

Recycle – As a last option, recycle it. Whether it’s paper, plastic, glass or aluminum, just take a moment and keep these items separate so they can be recycled.

Check out a video of singer, Jack Johnson, teaching some kids about the 3 R’s with a catchy song.

Here are some more simple ideas to get you started on the road of living a greener life.

• Reduce the amount of water you use by simply turning off that faucet when you brush your teeth or shave! Or just keep a glass or cup by the sink, and use that instead of keeping the water running as you brush.
• Reduce the number of plastic bags by using a cloth bag or other types made out of durable materials when you shop. And it doesn’t have to be just at the grocery store! Bring the bag to the shopping mall! Try to keep a few of these bags in your car, so you’ll always have one handy!
• Reduce the amount of energy you use by putting a lid on the pan when you’re boiling water. You’ll end up saving money on your energy bill!
• Turn off the lights when no one is in the room.
• Look for Less Packaging — Of all the garbage we generate, 1/3 is packaging that gets thrown away immediately. Buy in bulk or concentrate form when possible, and avoid excessive packaging layers.
• Avoid disposable products such as juice boxes or single serving snacks. Since almost all products require some packaging, choose ones with packaging that is recyclable. (Tip provided by “OC Waste & Recycling”)
• You know those containers for cottage cheese, butter spreads, etc? Wash them out and reuse them as food containers! (Learned this trick from my own mother, thanks Mom!)
• Try to look for items made with recycled materials.
• Got used toner or ink cartridges? Send them back to the manufacturer for recycling! They often come with a return mailing label. Won’t cost you a cent!

The list can go on and on. It is only limited by your imagination. Next time when you are about to make a purchase, throw something out, or just going about your daily routine, remember that catchy little song by Jack Johnson. Reduce, reuse, recycle….