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Buying Green

If your plan is to become more environmentally friendly a nice way to start is by buying environmentally friendly products for use around the house. Many environmentally friendly products can be identified by the Good Housekeeping Seal of Green or Energy Star logo. Here is a list of items that an average household purchases and some helpful hints on how to buy “green”:

• Cars – Hybrids are a type of car that get great gas mileage, and produce less emissions than regular automobiles. Purchasing a hybrid can also mean a tax break – what a deal!
• Appliances – Today’s major appliances don’t hog energy the way older models did because they must meet minimum federal energy efficiency standards. Efficient appliances don’t just save money, they are good for the environment. So which models use the least amount of energy? Here are some guidelines:
  • Energy Star models are the most energy efficient in any product category, exceeding the energy efficiency minimums set by the federal government. Check this chart to see products qualifying for a federal tax credit with your purchase of an Energy-Star rated model appliance.
  • Use the Energy Guide label to compare the typical annual energy consumption and operating cost of different models of any type of appliance you’re thinking of buying. Make sure the product you are buying suits your needs.
  • Choose appliances that run on natural gas. It’s usually more efficient to burn natural gas where it’s needed — in your home — than to burn it at a power plant, convert the heat to electricity and then send the electricity over wires to your home. Energy-efficient appliances may cost more initially but will save you money over time. In addition, the most efficient clothes washers and dishwashers save energy and use less water which can reduce your water bill.
• Organic Food – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) developed national standards for the use of the word “organic.” Whether produced in the United States or imported, we can be assured that the foods are produced without antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, irradiation or bioengineering. Organic farmers are required to adhere to certain soil and water conservation methods and to rules about the humane treatment of animals. Farmers who produce organic foods use renewable resources that conserve the soil and water for future generations.
• Clothes – Unlike energy efficient appliances and organic food, finding eco-friendly clothing is a little more difficult. Here are a few fabrics that are made with the environment in mind:
  • Organic cotton : It’s grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Organic production systems replenish and maintain soil fertility and are grown without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.
  • Bark Cloth: 100% organic, not having undergone any textile agents or other chemical treatments during manufacturing. Textures can range from fleece to leather.
  • Organic wool: To be certified organic the livestock must follow federal requirements for organic livestock production. Some of the organic wool products most widely available today include: baby clothes, blankets, coats, knitting yarn, socks, sweaters, and throws.