If you want to grow a herb that is not typically known by a lot of people, you can grow stevia. This herb, also known as stevia rebaudiana, is a perennial that is common in Brazil and Paraguay. Stevia cannot be left dry for too long but it also cannot be left in standing water or else it will rot. You can successfully grow stevia in your garden if you just follow these simple tips.

• Make sure that you plan stevia on a raised bed to help keep it dry.
• Use sandy loam or loam as your soil. This is what stevia prefers the most.
• Make sure that you get enough space between your stevia plants. 10 to 12 inches apart in the row with two rows in one bed is the best ratio. You can use this pattern for both seeds or actual plants.
• Treat stevia like a vegetable. Always make sure that it is has adequate moisture. Irrigate every week when there is no rain to water the plants.
• Mulch the bed with organics like grass clippings, leaves, straw or compost. Mulch up to 6 inches deep if need be.
• Be warned that stevia stems are very prone to breakage so protect them when there are high winds. Make sure that the area where you plant your stevia is protected from the elements. You can corral the plants with strings tied to stakes, if you want.

You can use fresh stevia leaves right off the plant. You can mix it with some mint leaves – they are a great combination. You can harvest the leaves right before the plants start to flower. You can dry the leaves by hanging it in a dry and warm area with plenty of circulation.

Recycled materials

For a greener garden, use recycled or recyclable materials. Stay away from plastic pots, tools and trays, which are difficult to recycle. Instead, consider bamboo, cardboard or ceramic alternatives. Even biodegradable pots are available, allowing you to stick the entire pot into the ground when you purchase a new plant. If you do purchase items in plastic pots or trays, ask your garden center about recycling these items so they don't wind up in a landfill. More garden stores are accepting pots as returns so they can be reused. Of course, growing your plants from seeds reduces the number of pots you acquire and you may be able to trade cuttings or divisions with other gardeners to start your new plants.

Consider as well outdoor furniture like patio sets that are made out of recycled materials. Enjoy your blooming garden from an Earth-friendly seat that looks nice and will withstand the elements.

Rainwater barrel

With a rainwater barrel, you can harvest nature's bounty and use it to water your garden, rather than endlessly running the hose.  Consider permanently fixing a barrel under a gutter, which helps to catch water. If you're especially motivated, connect a hose and tap to the barrel for a more convenient watering set up. Use the naturally softened water-to-water plants, washing off garden implements and even to clean your windows or wash your car.

Composting

Composting doesn't require a lot of effort. It helps your vegetables or flowers grow more healthily and you can reduce the amount of trash you're tossing in garbage bags, which means fewer trips to the dumpster every week. An easy compost bin can be created in a large plastic container, from a bucket that can sit on the counter to a trash bin you no longer use. You can also buy a bin or compost tumbler if you don't have the time or space for a do-it-yourself project. Start composting with leaves and grass clippings, coffee grounds, fruit or vegetables past their prime (or their skins and cores), shredded newspaper and vegetable skins. If you live near the shore or a pond, consider adding seaweed or algae to your compost to help it decompose. Avoid adding items like plants treated with pesticides as they can harm vegetation in your garden.

Trash becomes usable fertilizer more quickly between the temperatures of 120 degrees and 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep your compost bin in direct sunlight and use a black container to speed up the decomposition process. When compost is done, it will have a lower volume than the trash you started with, but will be more dense and ready to spread on your garden.

Working in your garden is a fun and worthwhile pursuit, especially when you green your efforts outdoors. A few small changes to the way you use and reuse materials, water your plants and acquire organic matter will see your garden growing greener in no time.

Holly is an advocate of going green around the home. When she isn’t blogging on behalf of Sears and other prestigious brands, she enjoys gardening and pretending it’s summer all year long.

Shop Local

Before you purchase things, ask yourself where they came from. The amount of labour and money that it takes to bring things to your hometown from overseas is immense, and the international shipping is pervasive. When it comes to food, take advantage of any local farmers markets and check at the local health food store for things that were grown in a local fashion.

Second-Hand Shopping

If you love vintage clothes then this tip is perfect for you. Instead of buying things new, look around for second-hand deals all around you. You can reduce the amount of energy and waste in the world if you simply find things that other people are looking to get rid of. Start haunting the local thrift shops and resale stores, you can be sure to find some absolutely fantastic deals just waiting for you.

Entertain Yourself

You don’t need to spend more power, more money or more energy entertaining yourself. While these things do help, there are some fantastic, low-tech entertainments out there that can make you feel a lot more secure with your world and a great deal more appreciative of what you have. Get outside or call your friends over for a low-tech evening of conversation, singing or dancing, where no one gets to use any electronic equipment. This is a great way to bond with people and also to feel more connected to natural things.

Start a Garden

Whether your garden is going to take over your backyard or you are interested in seeing what you can grow on the windowsill, now is absolutely the time to start planning. Grow plants that you can eat or simply grow flowers that bring you peace. There are some fantastic choices out there for you. If you want to help the environment, keep invasive plants out of your garden and introduce more native plants. Not only will the native plants be healthier, they will also bring out the local wildlife as well.

Drive Less, Walk More

If you love the idea of helping the environment, simply walk more. Leave the car in the garage and go for a long walk. If you are lucky enough to live within a walkable distance of local amenities, start walking when you want to get groceries or to run easy errands.

It is possible to live a more sustainable lifestyle. All you have to do is to make the decision to do so today!

Sarah writes on behalf of DLProg who addresses an important gap in international thinking and policy about the critical role played by leaders, elites and coalitions in the politics of development. Read more about The Leadership Program and the Pacific Leadership Program at DLProg.org.

Attracting new customers

As consumers are increasingly aware of the need to protect the environment, they have come to expect the companies they do business with to follow suit. To comply with these desires you can focus on developing your businesses’ speciality towards being environmentally friendly. New and improved products are a sign of your concern, and you will find your business will advance when people become aware of what you are doing. It would also be an ideal opportunity to advertise your particular brand by informing local newspapers or websites of your activities. Articles and web space talking about how great you are will lead to a boost in interest.

Deciding what to do

Although the benefits of taking this step are significant, it is sometimes difficult to choose the processes that will produce the most workable form of sustainability. A vast amount of data, programs and resources are available to assist business owners in combining new environmental techniques with their current business operation. Even at this relatively early stage, it is apparent that a “one size fits all” approach will not work. Instead, the method you choose will prove to be a blend of environmental concepts that work together well, based on the products or services you offer in order to be successful.

While you may be interested in going green, you may feel uncertain in regard to making the necessary changes. If you find yourself in this situation, you can work with a company that performs energy audits to obtain an overview of your company’s ongoing energy consumption. Also, note that while they are eco-friendly, green cleaning products will also reduce the amount of chemicals ingested by your employees when they come to work each day.

Having the right outlook

At times, we may feel that what we do as individuals will not have much of an impact on preserving the environment, but if we realise this is actually a group effort, then we can conclude that the actions we take, or fail to take, will have a positive or negative effect.

What you will accomplish

Recycling by itself can save many tonnes of waste each year from being aimlessly dumped into waste sites. By simply turning off your office products correctly (the dreaded standby) will stop vast amounts of greenhouse gases from entering the Earth’s atmosphere annually. The other endeavours you take up could propel your company towards recognition awards from environmental groups. Such good exposure would benefit your company enormously.

Financial incentives for going green

Running a green business can also be less expensive. For example, you will want to find alternative forms of power, along with increasing the sustainability of what you already have and using it more economically. Entrepreneurs are often given tax credits as an incentive for going green. The federal government is beginning to support entrepreneurs who know the importance of running a company that is eco-friendly, and there are many positive steps you can take to reduce your operating costs.

The Environment

There is a fundamental reason you will be doing all of this – the environment. This is for the good of the Earth and the future of us all. An enthusiastic and positive attitude will go a long way, and you will also find being Green gives off its own feel good factor. Utilise this as energy for your daily activities.

Alex Morris works for Office Kitten in Manchester where he writes, researches and blogs about the business world.

Working out the carbon footprint of produce is a complicated process that takes into account not only transport and storage facilities, but also packaging, and the use of pesticides and growing houses. Each product must be assessed individually. So while at first glance it seems to make no sense to truck oranges from California to New York, if oranges are grown near New York, the orchards will need to be artificially heated. When assessing each product's carbon footprint, 'many factors come into play. While it might seem overwhelming, at the end of the day there are some easy choices each of us can make that will help reduce our personal carbon footprint.

Whether you choose to shop organic and local, or to eat out at a vegetarian or sustainable restaurant, or join an organic food co-op, there are always choices that each of us can make. So on that note here are my five tips for ethical food choices in Melbourne.

1) Shop at Organic, Ethical supermarkets

Instead of heading straight to Coles or Woollies, do a quick google search and find the nearest organic, ethical supermarket to you. You'd be surprised, there are actually quite a few including The Radical Grocery Store - a vegan, ethical, sustainable supermarket, located on 6 Wilson Ave, Brunswick. They're fiercely devoted to providing a solid alternative, so you can buy fundamentals without stressing about the social or environmental impact.

2) Join an Organic Food Co-op

Joining an organic food co-op means that you're not just choosing to buy produce that's local, organic and in-season, but there's the added bonus of becoming part of a community. Usually when you join an organic food co-op you sign up for a couple of hours of volunteer work each month. In this atmosphere, you'll meet like-minded people, and can share recipe and sustainability tips. You also have to bring your own containers and bags for your food, but at least you know that you're not contributing to the enormous problem of waste packaging. One of the longest running - over 30 years! - is the Friends of the Earth Melbourne Food Co-op (312 Smith street, Collingwood).

But if you're short on time, you can always order a weekly delivery of fresh organic fruit and veggies from a place like Miss Organic. That way someone else does the work for you, but you're still making the sustainable choice. Who knows, you might be surprised at how taking this step also boosts your creativity in the kitchen. You'll be turning out the tastiest squash recipe in no time!

3) Make a Beeline for an Organic Bakery

Just as buying local, organic produce supports organic farmers, so too, does buying organic bread. And it's also better for you. You might not realise it but many of the mass produced white bread options from the supermarket are full of preservatives, additives and hidden fats that contribute to gluten-intolerance, obesity, diabetes and heart disease. By choosing to buy organic bread (and groceries), you're not only helping the planet, you're also helping yourself! Give Loafer Bread (146 Scotchmer St, Fitzroy) a go, family-run and dedicated to quality.

4) Eating Out sustainably

Of course making sustainable food choices doesn't mean that you're stuck living a Spartan existence, cooking at home. Melbourne has long been a hotspot for vegetarian, organic and sustainable restaurants and leading the charge is Grumpy's Green (125 Smith St, Fitzroy). Not content with offering organic meal and beverage options, the folks at Grumpy's Green have made sure that the whole place runs as sustainably as possible. This means that they've paid great attention to detail and implemented extensive energy saving measures from installing two, 2,000 litre rainwater tanks, to using energy efficient appliances and biodegradable cleaning products. In addition to their green street cred, Grumpy's Green serves up a range of super tasty burritos, burgers and mains.

5) Ethical Fast food

Even if you're an eco-warrior at heart, sometimes the pull of fast food is just too strong, but now there's an ethical option: Lord of the Fries. They're taking on the fast food giants at their own game, with a vegan ferocity and quality standard that saw them win "Best Chips in Melbourne" (Herald Sun, 2011), and make it to the "Top 5 Burgers in Melbourne" (The Age, 2011). The menu is certified vegan so you don't have to worry about trans fats, or beef tallow getting in the way of a good chip!

Louisa Peterson from Delivery Hero home delivery solutions for Australians is a food, travel and lifestyle blogger interested in sustainability issues. When she's not blogging about all things food-related, she still enjoys hitting the kitchen to try out new recipes, travelling and going to the beach.

But when it comes to climate change and sustainability, it is the small everyday changes that will have the biggest impact on Australia’s environmental footprint.

The Australian government is making it easier for homes and individuals to switch to renewable energy – it’s not as hard as you might think. Under the GreenPower program, the government enables your energy provider to purchase renewable energy on your behalf.

Under this program, the government has added renewable energy to power grids. In turn, energy retailers and providers can offset their customers’ electricity and gas use with renewable energy.

How do I elect for green power

If you would like to support the environment, simply choose the amount of accredited GreenPower you would like your electricity retailer to purchase on your behalf, depending on what plans they have available – 10, 20, 25, 50, 75 or 100 per cent of your electricity account. For a small weekly charge, you can elect for the electricity you use in your home to be offset by energy from renewable energy sources (such as sun, wind, water and waste). Making this simple decision, and informing your energy retailer, means you are doing your part to reduce your impact on climate change.

Demand drives more renewable energy investment

Even if you only choose 10% of your electricity account to be offset by renewable energy sources, you are still supporting the wider renewable energy movement in Australia. The more demand that there is for green energy, the more the government will invest in renewable energy sources, and in initiatives that make it easier for Australians to make the switch.

How much more does green power cost?

There is an added cost to green energy, which will vary depending on how much energy you consume, and the percentage of green power you want to use. It is estimated, however, that your energy costs will go up by as little as $1 per week for 10-25 per cent GreenPower. To switch to 100% green power, your electricity bill is likely to increase by 80 cents to $1.50 per day.

If you want to do more for the environment and are interested in going green – it’s easy. Electricity and gas suppliers can implement the changes for you and use green power from the power grid on your behalf. It’s a simple, low cost way that you can do your part to reduce Australia’s carbon emissions.

Author bio: David Goadby from Australian Power & Gas encourages all Australians to consider green energy in their homes and to become more familiar with energy efficient practices in the home. Australian Power & Gas is a leading gas and electricity supplier in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, helping Australians get transparent and fair deals on their power.

Planting trees and high shrubs strategically around a house can be an effective way to block many of the sun's strong rays during the summer months. Before planting anything, study the way the sun strikes the house. In the northern hemisphere, the sun usually heats up the eastern, western and southern walls of a home the most during the summer months. Placing shade-giving trees in these areas will start cooling down the home immediately, as well as provide a shaded place to relax outside during the day.

Because it can take years for many types of trees to provide effective shade, some people prefer to use trellises that can support fast-growing vines. Most structures like these can typically be built by a handy homeowner with basic tools like a hammer and nails, screwdriver, drill and table saw. The best part of a DIY project is being able to craft a design unique to the residence that also complements the homeowner's personality.

Whether building or purchasing a trellis, make sure it is strong enough to carry the total eventual weight of all the vines that will be climbing upon it. Vines that grow quickly and are hardy are best. Native vines are always preferable to non-native types, as they will be the ones best suited to the area in which they are planted and not introduce harmful elements to the environment if they should escape.

A homeowner may want to choose flowering vines for aesthetics purposes. Clematis and morning glory are popular because they are usually easy to grow and have pretty flowers, while honeysuckle will fill the air with a beautiful fragrance in the spring. English Ivy should be avoided. Although pretty and easy to grow, it has a reputation for damaging bricks and other materials.

Once the vines on a trellis begin growing, a homeowner should train them by carefully threading the greenery upward through the trellis. Vines should also be maintained and pruned on a regular basis so they don't end up in areas of a yard where they aren't welcome.

Vine-covered trellises can serve an especially important role on the patios of apartments, condos or townhomes where it is often difficult to grow trees of any substantial size. These living green fences not only shade sliding glass doors or windows from the sun, but they can also provide homeowners in close living conditions with much-needed privacy.

As an environmental Gordon Gekko might say, "Green is good." Planting green can mean saving green, which is something everyone likes to hear. Additionally, homeowners have the chance to see their hard work pay off and will likely increase the resale value of the home with a simple but beautiful landscaping project.

Holly is an advocate of going green around the home. When she isn’t blogging on behalf of Sears and other prestigious brands, she enjoys gardening and pretending it’s summer all year long.

Before you write this idea off as crazy, let's dig a little deeper into the process. As with any item of clothing, jeans will gather bacteria and develop unpleasant odors. Most people just wash their jeans to get rid of these, but you can cut down on washing machine usage by freezing denim. The low temperature kills bacteria, and therefore odors, bringing the jeans out feeling and smelling fresh.

The process:

1. Wear your jeans however long you feel comfortable, generally over a one- to two-week time period.
2. Empty the pockets; lay the jeans flat on a table; and brush off any debris you find.
3. Fold the jeans neatly; put them in a plastic bag; and press out as much air as you can.
4. Put jeans in the freezer. Give them 12 hours to get completely cold.
5. Remove the jeans and let them return to regular temperature. If you need to wear them right away, try using heaters in your laundry room to speed up the process. You can also toss your jeans in the dryer on the tumble setting to get rid of some of the stiffness.

Washing and drying jeans makes them wear out sooner. You may find the denim lasts longer when you freeze them every other time you would ordinarily wash them. This saves you money in the long run and reduces the number of times you wear out your favorite pair.

You will, of course, still wash your jeans to remove set-in stains, especially if you work outdoors and end up with muddy cuffs or you have a propensity for spilling things on yourself. When you throw your jeans in the wash, set the water level accordingly, use cold water, wash them inside out to preserve their finish and consider making your own laundry detergent to keep harsh chemicals out of the water supply. Doing so is cost-effective and one of the easiest ways to be green around your home.

Freezing your jeans is an interesting idea and one that you should at least try once. It's an environmentally friendly alternative to washing your jeans every single week. You might find it works well for your needs, especially if your jeans are an expensive brand that require more care than a pair you picked up at a thrift store for a few dollars. When it's time to thaw your denim, just be careful you don't mistake them for that weird casserole in the back of your freezer.

Holly is an advocate of going green around the home. When she isn’t blogging on behalf of Sears and other prestigious brands, she enjoys tending to her compost pile and researching essential oils for use in her homemade air fresheners.

An outdoor awning is a great way to add enjoyment to your back yard. Adding an one provides a more comfortable environment for your family and your next dinner party. You can decrease the temperature of the covered area by as much as 20 degrees, making your covered patio the ideal place to escape the summer heat while enjoying the great outdoors at the same time.

An outdoor awning also provides valuable protection against the sun's harmful UV rays which can damage your skin and your health. It also adds a layer of protection to your patio furniture by keeping it from fading or other harmful weather effects.

According to a major study conducted at the University of Minnesota, an awning can decrease cooling costs in the summer by as much as 17 percent in some climates with an average savings of 15 percent. This is a direct result of the awning blocking the sun before it enters the otherwise unprotected windows.

Awnings are a great way to add value to your home without the significant investment that comes with added construction. Screened porches and other similar structures can cost thousands of dollars, while an awning can be self-installed for a fraction of the cost. You can also achieve the same pleasing aesthetic look by selecting a color scheme that works with your existing exterior design. Even better, you can simply take it down in the event of bad weather and avoid the risk of damage and repair that comes with permanent structures.

An outdoor awning is a great way to add value, comfort and style to your home without the costly investment of other options available.

Earth-friendly products like lead-free, low VOC paints and DEHB-free lighting are identical to traditional elements. Small  substitutions like these can help make a difference. You could also change the existing elements in your room, instead of buying new. For example, a table, dresser, or desk can easily be transformed with a fresh coat of paint and a change of hardware. There are a lot of on-line resources dedicated to upcycling old furniture and transforming it into something brand new! For larger projects, going green starts with the right building materials. You can find environmentally conscious windows, flooring, appliances and even roofing if you do a little bit of research.

Although the upfront cost may be more expensive, investing in Energy Star rated windows can make a big difference in your monthly bills. Double or triple-pane windows insulate your home much better than single-pane models and can save a lot of energy. The same goes for cool metal roofing. It’s coated with a light reflective coating so it absorbs less of the suns energy, meaning you don’t need to run you’re A/C unit as often to keep a cool temperature in the summer. The extra savings each month can really add up! Another added benefit of the cool metal roofing is that it can be installed directly on top of asphalt shingles, eliminating the need for those shingles to go in a landfill. Metal roofs last about 50 years, so it’s unlikely that it would need to be replaced again in your lifetime.

Another way to tackle a green home remodel is by using salvage material. By using salvaged materials, you’re preventing reusable building materials from winding up in landfills. Not only do these goods conserve resources associated with new product manufacturing, but they eliminate the packaging waste that results from new goods. These items give your home loads of character and history, even though the remodel is new! For example, there are companies that sell salvaged wood floors from old American breweries and even abandoned Chinese temples. You can also check out  your local paper for auctions, estate and even barn sales! These are great places to find wood flooring, paneling, and ceiling beams.

So if you’re planning on remodeling your home in the future, consider one of the many green substitutions you can make during the process. From salvaged materials to energy efficient products, going green is easy when do a little bit of research!

This article was written by Erie Construction. Find Erie Construction reviews on Guild Quality today.

• Your average appliance left on standby will cost you a huge £83 a year.
• Swapping your old washing machine to a new efficient one could save you £370 over its lifetime.
• 29% of the UK’s CO2 emissions come from the home.

But to lighten the mood, it’s good to know there are a host of energy efficient appliances to choose from. And in the spirit of the upcoming Olympics here are my bronze, silver and gold medalists.

Gold

The Eco Bubble has sprinted into first place as it uses 70% less energy than standard washing machines.  Bubbles are created to cushion your clothes, spreading water and detergent more thoroughly and evenly through to the fibres of your clothes. This is also 40% quicker than concentrated liquid so your clothes get a gentler and more effective wash.

And it’s super quiet. The Eco Bubble doesn’t use the traditional belt and pulley system, completely taking away any vibration and noise. It’ll also last you a really long time as it’s far less likely to break down than your common washing machine. It really is one of the biggest revolutions in the last 10 years.

Silver

The KG36EAW40 Siemens freezer has shot to second place because of its top energy rating; it’s the best on the market right now. It only costs £18 to run a year, a more modest A rated fridge costs you £51, that’s a saving of £33 a year! So over the fridge’s lifetime (around 10 years), you’ll save a huge £330.

Huge savings aren’t the only thing that causes this fridge freezer to grab the silver spot. It has a specially designed cool box which keeps your food fresher for longer, and considering Britain throws away £600m worth of food, we could do with it lasting.

It also reduces ice build up by 50%, making it far more effective, as the build up of ice causes your fridge to become dramatically less efficient. And if you’re thinking all these features will cost you a bomb, think again, as it is the cheapest A+++ fridge freezer on the market.

Bronze

This is one of a very few A+++ energy rated dishwashers out there, and again it’s Siemens, as they really are the market leaders in energy efficient appliances. By using the Economy 50 programme the SN66T094GB only costs you a tiny £24 a year, which is nothing compared to what a less efficient B rated model costs you; around £43 a year. Over the 10 year lifetime of the product you save £190. And this dishwasher has a standby energy consumption of...drum roll please...nil, whereas you could be spending £83 a year when you’re not even using the dishwasher!

If you’re thinking you’re quite happy just washing by hand, let me tell- you you’ll save 30-40 litres of water every time you wash the pots. And dishwashers are way more hygienic as human hands can only withstand a temperature of up to 30 degrees, whereas dishwashers go up to 70, killing a whole lot more bacteria.

If you want more info on energy efficient appliances, click here.

Washers

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a washing machine with an Energy Star rating uses roughly 30% less energy and 50% less water than a traditional washer. Green washers have larger tubs, making it possible to wash more clothing in fewer loads. Top-load models don't have an agitator; instead of spinning clothing to clean it, the machine flips the clothes, allowing them to turn repeatedly while in the water. This 'flip' process eliminates the need to fill the entire washer tub, saving on the amount of water that is emptied from the world's waterways. Less water and electricity usage make for an appliance that has less of an impact on the planet. Consumers will also benefit from savings on their utility bills.

Dryers

Having a clothes dryer is a wonderful convenience but the appliance also drains energy. Luckily, green dryers often feature sensors that let the machine know when clothes have dried, preventing them from being all but cooked before the machine shuts off or a homeowner stops the cycle. Most users will still want to have a dryer on hand for large and/or bulky items like duvets and towels, but many smaller items from jeans to button-down shirts for the office can be air-dried. Doing so simply takes a little extra time… and an abundance of hangers.

Refrigerators

Today's refrigerators are designed more energy efficient than their older counterparts. Green refrigerators often feature better insulation in the walls and doors, preventing cold air from escaping or room temperature air from getting inside. Refrigerators with an automatic defrost function will use more energy than green models, which can use up to 50% less energy during the manual defrost process. Although side-by-side refrigerators seem to be all the rage, models with freezers above or below the fridge are more energy-efficient and still get the job done.

Water heaters

Responsible for an average of 20% of total home energy use, water heaters use nearly as much power as heating and cooling systems. Switching to a green water heater (also known as a tankless or on-demand water heater) will heat water only when necessary, instead of keeping the water hot throughout the day. Green water heaters also emit less carbon monoxide, reducing greenhouse gasses and lessening the effects of global warming.

In addition to helping the planet, consumers who switch to green appliances may benefit from tax credits. Although not all Energy Star-rated appliances are eligible for this deduction, appliance seekers who go green will still benefit from lower utility bills and the knowledge that they're making a responsible and effortless contribution to the planet.

Holly is an avid energy saver. When she isn’t blogging on behalf of Sears and her other favorites brands, she’s making her own cleaning products and reusable products.

Making some significant overhauls to regular routines is usually not the best way to make long term changes. One of the best ways to begin being more eco friendly is to small adjustments at our homes and apartments. Taking advantage of simple and sustainable fixes around the house can end up kick starting a long term plan for being more sustainable.

One of the most common and known ways to conserve more and make the home more sustainable is simply to use fluorescent light bulbs as an alternative to regular versions. Even though this is known by many and a small alteration to the home, it will likely be one of the best changes you can make. Fluorescent bulbs take up about 75 percent less energy and last extensively more than your common light bulbs.

Replacing normal light bulbs around the house is a very common eco friendly switch, but making some smaller and unknown adjustments can end up having a great long term effect on the sustainability of a house. Computers have become a household staple, with many families having four or five of them throughout their homes. Powering down the computers will not only be good for their battery life, but also in saving energy overnight.

Cutting down on ads and junk type mail is another great way to make the home more sustainable. There are a number of online services which allow you to no longer receive hoards of advertisements and catalogs all the time. You can also have the phone book cancelled online as well. Doing either will save hundreds of pages of paper waste from your own home every year.

Switching to eco friendly cleaners may be a bit of a bigger project than some other eco friendly changes, but it can certainly have a great effect on the home. Many of today’s common cleaners can be loaded with toxins and most grocery stores offer a number of green alternatives these days. If you’re feeling extra determined, you can even make some of your own cleaners with one of the many resources online.

There are a number of other simple steps to look into which will make the house more eco friendly. These aren’t limited to actions such as adjusting the thermostat, unplugging cell phone chargers, and refraining from running the water while brushing teeth. Of course there are numerous ways to maintain long term sustainability at home, but taking advantage of a few of these simple steps can help lay the early groundwork for an eco friendly lifestyle.

Energy-efficient appliances come in many forms, including water heaters, washers, dryers, and refrigerators. Water heaters in particular use about 20% of the total energy in the home, making them second only to the energy used by heating and cooling systems. Using cold water for housework provides a nice boost in the budget while still allowing for effectual cleaning.

Nowadays, washers use less water, including that which is heated. Washing clothes in cold water rather than warm or hot is an additional bonus to make life a little greener. Front-loading machines are better than their top-loading counterparts as the latter requires more time to spin water from clothes. Adopting green appliances can see homeowners benefitting from tax credits and rebates on qualifying models.

Dryers are well known for draining energy. Newer models feature sensors that turn off the machine when clothes are dry, which prevents clothes from being proverbially baked and their life shortened. The best option when it comes to drying clothes, however, is to hang clothes on a clothesline or drying rack. Doing so eliminates the energy a dryer would use, especially with an older model sans timer or sensor to turn off the machine when it's done. Keep in mind that a laundry explosion can be quite the conversation starter while also providing the gentle aroma of fabric-softener-scented air.

New federal standards have made appliances like refrigerators more energy-friendly. Models manufactured in the past 10 years beat out their predecessors given updated designs that include better insulation in fridge walls and doors. The best choices are those featuring freezers above or below the fridge, rather than side-by-side models. Similarly, refrigerators with a manual defrost component can use up to 50% less energy than those with an automatic defrost function.

While a homeowner's initial investment may be more than a standard appliance, long-term savings can be realized while remembering that a green machine eases environmental impact. Homeowners should keep an eye out for appliances that feature an Energy Star rating, which will allow consumers to be environmentally-conscious without sacrifice.

Holly Lee is an avid yogi, animal lover, and vegan. She enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves. Holly hates winter but enjoys wool socks, warm mugs and other comforts of home the season affords her.

In developing countries, according to UNICEF more than 884 million people lack easy access to safe, clean water, and this number is still growing. This means that only about one in every eight people has water when and where they need it. Along with this using water, particularly hot water, contributes to global warming by increasing the emissions of greenhouse gases. Furthermore according to the UK Environment Agency the average family in the developed world uses about 500 litres of water per day, which produces around 1.5 tons of greenhouse gasses every year.

In Australia the average family wastes according to the Environment Protection Authority based in Queensland about 60000 litres of water a year, this alarming figure needs to be cut down and it is therefore, extremely important that you try to conserve water. You will find that it pays to save water, and if you follow these five simple tips for water conservation you will soon see your water bills decrease significantly.

For example it may be a well know piece of advice but leaving the water running while you brush your teeth or massage the shampoo into your hair is not only entirely unnecessary, it can also waste hundreds of litres of water. By simply turning off the tap while doing these things, you can save money and the environment.

1. Invest in Water Efficient Shower Heads and Faucets as well as a Low Flow Toilet

According to Environment Canada today, we use nearly 50% more water than we used to. This is partly down to the fact that showers have become more powerful and household appliances use more water to run. Showers and faucets make up about 35% of our total daily water consumption. By using more efficient faucets and shower heads, you can still enjoy your showers, but with the knowledge that you are not using more water than you need to.
Toilets use about 40% of the total daily water consumption in a household. Using a more efficient flush system for your toilet could greatly reduce that percentage and save you a lot of money in the long run.

2. Outside Water Tanks

Collect any rain water that falls (after all its free!) into a water tank to store for use around the garden, this is a great way to save and store water so that it can be used for the gardening or even washing the car therefore saving you from taking the water from the tap.

3. Toilet Gadgets!

Ok so these may not be at the top of many must have gadgets lists but there are an increasing number of gadgets you can use in the tank of your toilet that help to cut down on water supply. Some of these gadgets use polyethylene to reduce the amount of water flushed away and can save up to 2.5 litres per flush! That equates to a lot of saved water by the end of the year!

4. Be Smart when using water in the garden!

Maintaining a garden especially throughout the summer takes up a lot of time and water, however there are ways to limit the water that you do use. As mentioned above outside water tanks help to save but other simple tips such as leaving your grass to go slightly brown or not cutting it short (longer grass needs less water) can save tips. Checking the weather forecast and waiting for rain, using a watering can instead of a hosepipe all saves a lot of water. Finally the planning of your garden to make sure plants get some shade during part of the day is an excellent way to cut down on watering needs

5. Fix Leaks and Insulate Your Homes Water Pipes

You may not think that a leaky faucet or shower head wastes a lot of water, but all those drops add up and a leaky faucet could waste up to 75 litres of water per day. So just imagine how much water a larger leak can waste.

When taking a shower, you probably need to leave the water running for a few minutes to warm up before you get in. By insulating your water pipes, the water will heat up much faster, and you can save water by not leaving the water on for longer than you have to. It also pays to have your water heater checked at least yearly, to ensure that it is working as efficiently as possible.

By Trent Bardon, a writer for Sydney Water Tanks

1. Good earth, good health

Ditching store-bought cleansers in favor of green cleaning products is good for the planet and the wellness of your employees. Rather than polluting waterways – and your employees' lungs – with toxic chemicals, switch to natural cleansers like baking soda and vinegar to keep things looking shiny and new around the office. Fewer sick days for your employees means higher productivity and happier clients.

2. Easy to do

There's little effort involved in going a little greener. You can easily mix up a bottle of cleanser for use around the break room or kitchen (especially helpful for office microwaves). Make the switch interactive by getting employees involved. Encourage them, for instance, to mention your 'gone green' policies on Facebook or Twitter and see if you can't influence others in and outside your industry.

3. Cost-effective

Rather than pouring money into buying cleansers from your favorite major retailer, give some thought to buying supplies like baking soda in bulk. Some companies will sell the product in quantities up to a ton. When it comes time to scour the office, consider hiring a green cleaning service. The cost of doing so is comparable to working with a traditional service. Any additional cost your company might incur will pay off in the long run with a safer working environment and the knowledge that you've contributed to sustainable efforts.

4. Reap rewards

Companies who go green can realize incentives from organizations like the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System and the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star® program. Companies can qualify for LEED points, which is a certification system for buildings that have gone green. Businesses who can provide clear evidence that they are working greener may even be eligible for tax credits.

Quick tips for going a little greener around the office:

• Don't just throw away toxic cleansers. Pouring chemicals down the drain is not good for the water supply and you don't want cleanser bottles crowding out a landfill. Keep an eye out for 'tox drop' days in your community where harmful substances can be properly disposed of.

• Improve your indoor air quality and decorate public areas, offices, or cubicles with plants. They're excellent for filtering out pollutants, such as those left over from store-bought chemicals that can make your employees sick. Likewise, a nice selection of plants will be visually appealing to employees and visitors alike.

Now that you know some of the benefits of switching to green cleaning, hopefully you can join the revolution against toxins that are harming the planet. Educate, engage, and be extolled!

Holly Lee is an avid yogi, animal lover, and vegan. She enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves. Holly hates winter but enjoys wool socks, warm mugs and other comforts of home the seasons forces on her.

Warm food really hits the spot in the winter but a stove is the biggest energy user in the kitchen. Employ a microwave for anything that doesn't need to be done stovetop. Microwaves use 1/5 to 1/2 the energy that stoves require for the same job. Many people worry about microwave cooking giving their food rubbery textures or heating unevenly. Texture and even cooking are issues for stove cooking too. The solution is the same with a microwave—experiment and you'll get better at it. There are also lots of great resources for tips on microwave cooking online and with a little adaptation you'll be surprised how quickly a variety of foods can be prepared.

I spent many years of my life without a dishwasher. Now that I have one, I love it but many people do all the work even if they own a washer. The point of a dishwasher is to wash your dishes. You should not wash them beforehand. Scrap? Yes. Rinse? Maybe. But washing your dishes before you run them through the dishwasher is a waste of water, time and energy. Yes, this may mean that your dishes end-up a little cloudier and there can be food particles left after a wash. But it is much more efficient to run a wash and then spot clean a few offending items than to wash the whole load twice. Additionally, you should only run your dishwasher when it is completely full. The same amount of energy and water is used either way—don't waste it!

One-pot meals are not just for college students. Cooking with unnecessary dishes and steps requires multiple burners to be on and produces more dirty dishes. This is a huge energy waster. Delicious meals can be cooked in just one pan. Your options for one-pot cooking are diverse, as most balanced dinners can be adapted. Select a carb or starch--pasta, potatoes and rice are all great options. Then you add a protein. Seasoning and vegetables go in last. One-pot cooking is all about layers and putting items that take longer to cook on the bottom. Keep plenty of water, oil or sauce in the pan and you won't have to worry about burning. Follow this guide to think up your own one-pot creations.

Holly Lee is an avid yogi, animal lover, and vegan. She enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves. Holly hates winter but enjoys wool socks, warm mugs and other comforts of home the seasons forces on her.

Green the wash

In the past 20 years, washers have become much more energy efficient than older models. To live greener at home, invest in a more efficient model and consider saving the washer for bulky and/or large items like denim, towels and comforters, all of which take considerable effort to wash and rinse by hand, negating the Earth-saving measures you were undertaking in the first place. Hand-wash smaller items with a washing board and homemade detergent and let air dry on drying racks or clothesline.

Power down

Appliances use a lot of power, even when they're shut off. Energy-sucking culprits include computers, printers, televisions, DVD players and TiVo. Plugging items into one power strip will make it easier to shut them on and off when you're leaving for the workday or going to sleep at night. Though it might initially take a little practice, it will become second nature to unplug rather than switch off, perhaps more so when you notice a difference with your utility bill.

Also make sure you unplug phone chargers when you're done charging your phone, as they too will draw power that you need not pay for. What starts as small increments can really add up and unnecessarily inflate your utility bills.

Around the house

Installing a low-flow showerhead can reduce your average water use by up to 50%. On average, a regular showerhead uses four gallons of water per minute. If installing a new showerhead is not an option, get wet in the shower and then shut off the water off while you soap up. You'll accomplish the same result without wasting needless gallons of water. As good as it feels to linger, keep in mind that an average 10-minute shower can use more than 40 gallons of water.

Use natural ingredients to clean up around your house. A plethora of cleansers can be made using non-toxic materials like baking soda, lemon juice, and vinegar. These handy household items will efficiently clean your house without exposing you or the environment to toxins.

You can make a number of green health and beauty aids, including alcohol-free mouthwash. Mix together 1 ¼ cups of mineral water (such as Evian or Perrier) with six drops each of peppermint oil and tea-tree oil. Pour into a sterilized bottle, shake well before each use and gargle as you would with a store-bought mouthwash.

Thankfully, this list of 'go green' suggestions isn't exhaustive. If you're new to greening your lifestyle, be sure to start small. Giving yourself time to adjust to your new habits will help you succeed down the line. Before long, you'll probably be advising friends about steps they can take to green their lives.

Holly Lee is an avid yogi, animal lover, and vegan. She enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves.

Here are 7 ways of going green and saving money while you're at it:

1. Scale Back Your Energy Usage

Cutting back your energy use is one of the easiest ways to go green and save boatloads of money. If you set your thermostat just a few degrees higher during the summer and just a few degrees lower in the winter, you can save on heating and air conditioning without sacrificing too much comfort.

Instead of round incandescent bulbs, use compact fluorescent light bulbs which last for years longer than incandescent bulbs and use less energy. Your energy bill will thank you.

Be vigilant about turning off lights and appliances when you aren't using them. Buy an eco-friendly power strip that eliminates "vampire" electricity use.

Instead of warm or hot water, cold water will suffice most of the time when washing clothes. This can cut the energy costs of your washing machine by up to 85 percent. Consider using a clothesline or drying rack instead of a dryer.

2. Cut Back Your Water Use

The less water you use, the less your water and heating bills will be and the less you will impact the environment and water supplies.

Instead of baths, take showers, and be quick. If you do like longer showers, try a low-flow showerhead which limits the water flow. They are cheap and you'll barely notice the difference.

On your home's many faucets, install a faucet aerator. They change the stream of water coming out of the faucet by dividing the stream, which helps to conserve water. They can also reduce the amount of heat needed to make hot water and can help keep water pressure high.

3. Change the Way You Commute

If you drive to work but could walk or bike, give it a try. You will save on gas, parking, and car payments. It's also healthier as it can improve your cardiovascular health and diminish your chances of becoming obese, which can lead to a wide range of diseases that are expensive to treat.

Ask your boss if you can telecommute to work if you live too far away to bike or walk. If you do live very far away from work, consider moving closer. The savings in the long run could outweigh the costs of moving and of extra rent.

If you must drive, consider trading in your car for a more fuel-efficient car, a hybrid car, or an electric car. These will save you money on gas and will be cleaner for the environment.

4. Changing the Way You Eat

If you are a meat eater, consider cutting some amount of meat from your diet. Pound for pound, meat is more expensive than most other types of food including fruits and vegetables. The environmental impact of meat production is significant and contributes to water, air, and land pollution. Eating excessive meat also increases your risk of cardiovascular disease in the future.

Buy sustainable produce, meat, and eggs that are locally grown or raised. Not only is this cheaper because it eliminates the middleman, local food does not have the same environmental impact as food that has been shipped or trucked into town.

5. Saying No to Bottled Water

Bottled water is more expensive than tap water and most of the time isn't as pure. Instead of buying bottled water, filter your tap water and use reusable aluminum bottles. Water bottles become container waste and contribute to landfills and pollution.

6. Seeking Alternatives to Buying

For some purchases, buying shouldn't be the first thing that comes to your mind.

Instead of buying books and movies, borrow them from a library instead. Books and movies can get expensive, and you get a chance to try before you buy. Also, the plastic used in DVDs and the ink and paper used in new books all have a negative environmental impact.

When in the market for furniture or appliances, consider secondhand or used products for the cheap. Barter on Craigslist or use eBay to bid for a great deal.

When shopping for clothing, try out thrift or consignment stores. They often have better deals on brand-name clothing that could have been worn just a few times. These clothes usually would have ended up in a landfill somewhere.

7. Making Smart Purchases

What products you buy and how you buy them both have an impact on the environment. Going green when making purchases is relatively easy.

Evaluate what kind of goods you buy a lot of and buy them in bulk. When buying food in bulk you'll often save money and cut down on packaging you take home with you. Don't buy anything that is packaged in Styrofoam, which doesn't biodegrade and ends up stuck in landfills.

Since dry cleaning chemicals are toxic, buy clothes that don't need to be dry-cleaned.

Do your research and target products that are long-lasting, durable, and high-quality.

Andy is the co-founder of CreditCardCompare.com.au, one of Australia's top credit card comparison services. He also edits their blog, The Credit Letter.

1. Tackle allergens with Dyson vacuums

Dyson vacuums have become well known for their powerful cleaning abilities, which is something all homeowners – especially pet lovers – can appreciate. Anything that helps keep dust, pet hair 'tumbleweeds,' and other irritants to a minimum is welcome, especially if your family is susceptible to allergies. Dyson vacuums include a HEPA filter, which isolates small particles that can cause conditions like asthma to flare up.

2. Make your own cleansers

Recipes abound for household cleansers that you can make using lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar. It's not necessary to buy prepackaged cleansers at the store, even if they're labeled as being biodegradable. Many are full of toxic chemicals that needlessly pollute the air in your home and cause health issues. Save money – and your lungs – by making your own products like these:

General household cleaner: Mix one cup of water with one cup of white vinegar and use around the house to clean countertops, floors, sinks, and more. Adding a cup of lemon juice can cut down on the vinegary smell, although it will fade once dry. You can also make an all-purpose cleanser using 1/4 cup of baking soda (an excellent scouring agent) and 1/2 cup of white vinegar in one gallon of hot water.

Glass cleaner: Add 1/4 cup of undiluted white vinegar to one quart of warm water and spray on mirrors to keep them clean and streak-free.

Air freshener: Add several drops of your favorite essential oil to a spray bottle full of warm water. Shake well and use around your home to invigorate your living space or create a relaxing atmosphere prior to sleeping. Jasmine, lemon, and rosemary oil are good for perking you up, while lavender and chamomile oil are good for calm surroundings.

3. Green clean your carpets

Many people have rugs in their homes which have probably been cleaned using steam cleaners. Consider instead dry carpet cleaning, which uses a humidified organic powder to remove stains and soil from carpets. The green process keeps moisture low, meaning that carpets can be walked on as soon as cleaning is done, rather than having to wait hours for the rug to dry. Reduce the chance that you'll have to deal with mold later and protect your family by keeping unnecessary chemical residue out of your home.

You need not breathe chemical fumes or go to considerable expense just to live in a clean home. Stay green at home with these tips and see your environmentally-friendly efforts start to affect other areas of your life.

Holly Lee is an avid yogi, animal lover, and vegan. She enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves, especially Dyson vacuums.