Eco-Gratification
Keeping the environment in mind when shopping is a simple way to make a positive impact. Shopping green reduces pollution and toxins in the environment, promotes fair treatment for workers, conserves vital resources and reduces animal suffering. Choosing products and services wisely is a simple way we can all make a difference.
Buy Reusable & Long-Lasting Items
Buy products that last for a while and won't go directly to the garbage can after a few uses. Think rechargeable batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, cloth diapers, real plates and cups. Use cloth towels and napkins instead of paper. Disposable goods like plastic cups and plates, disposable razors and cameras are examples of goods to avoid.
Buy in Bulk
Size does matter! Buy products in the largest size you can use and purchase what you can in bulk. When you buy the largest quantity of a product you can use, you help reduce the waste in packaging and save gas not driving back and forth to the store.
Buy Locally Grown and Raised Food Items
Eating green isn't just about getting more green leafy stuff in your diet. It's about all our food -- how it's grown, raised, processed, packaged and transported to the marketplace and how all of these practices affect our environment and, ultimately, our health. One of the most significant things you can do for the environment in terms of food shopping is to eat seasonal foods and buy local.
Buy Energy-Efficient Appliances
Look for the Energy Star label. It ensures that the product has met energy efficiency standards set by the EPA and Department of Energy. You'll also save on your power bill.
Buy Goods Made from Recycled Products
Buying recycled products stimulates markets for recyclable materials and provides incentive for manufacturers to use more recyclables in production, which in turn reduces our dependence on natural resources, conserves energy and prevents pollution.
Use organic and non-toxic alternatives to household chemicals and pesticides. Many cleaners and pesticides can be harmful to the environment as well as to the health of both humans and animals. It's easy to buy or make non-toxic alternatives.
Buy Low Flow Plumbing Fixtures
Using aerators in your faucets and installing low-flow showerheads can cut your family's water bills by 50% while helping to conserve our water supply.
Resources
- Green Guide Buying Guides
Published by National Geographic. A comprehensive guide to sustainable shopping. From footwear to playground equipment, these buying guides include a wealth of information about buying green.
- Local Farmers Markets are a great source for local foods sold in season.
- Slow Food International is a world-wide, non-profit organization that educates people about how their food choices affect the rest of the world. The Dallas Chapter organizes events involving great-tasting food!