Some people might be intimidated by the phrase “Going Green” because most people assume that in order to go green you have spend a lot of time and money in order to make a change. However, it doesn’t have to be as complicated as it seems, sometimes it is the simplest things that make all the difference. So what can do you in order to start your green lifestyle? Follow these easy and cost effective tips to get started!

1. Change your light bulbs. Replace just one regular light bulb with a fluorescent bulb. If you don’t like the color, use these bulbs in closets where it won’t bother you as much. Fluorescent bulbs use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer!
2. Turn your computer off. Although your computer may be in sleep mode, it is still using up energy. By turning your computer off at night you can save 40 watts each day.
3. Keep your freezer full. It takes a lot more energy to keep an empty space cool than it does to keep a crowded space cool.
4. Skip the sink. If you have a dishwasher try to avoid rinsing your dishes before loading them and always make sure the dishwasher is full before running.
5. Wash laundry in cold water. According to Energy Star, 90% of energy consumed by a washing machine is used by heating the water. By washing your laundry in cold water you are saving energy while getting clean clothes!
6. Utilize your cruise control. When driving to work start using your cruise control. You could get 15% better mileage and as gas prices continue to change almost daily this could save you money and help the environment at the same time!
7. Pay bills online. Not only is this becoming relatively easier, you will also contribute to saving millions of trees each year!
8. Clean out your trunk. Extra added weight within your vehicle could also add to more money on gas.
9. Recycle old cell phones. If old cell phones are not recycled they end up in landfills, but the phones and their batteries are still producing toxic chemicals into the environment.
10. Cut out the stirrer. Billions of coffee stirrers are thrown out each year immediately after use. Put your sugar and cream in first and then pour in the coffee. You should have a perfect mixture!

If you need more help on “Going Green” contact the experts of Delaware at Waste Masters Solutions!