If one of your resolutions this year was to live more sustainably, it's time to get started on making good on that goal! While being green can be a bit harder when you live in an apartment, it isn't impossible, and there are many small ways you can start greening your space today. Here, we offer just a few suggestions for a greener, cleaner apartment in 2012.
Have a separate bin for recyclables. If you're not already recycling, there's no better time to start than now. Many big apartment buildings provide bins outside for recyclables, leaving no excuse not to recycle. A small garbage can, plastic bin, or even an old box can work for holding your recyclables until you have enough to make a trip down to the bin worthwhile.
Donate, don't throw out. Many apartment dwellers are guilty of simply putting things they no longer need out for the garbage, especially those who don't have cars. There's another way, however. If it's a big item, call a local thrift store to pick it up (many will) or save smaller items up and bring them on one trip to the store for a donation.
Shop smart. One way to be much less wasteful in 2012 is to shop smarter. This means not buying things you don't really need and trying to waste as little food as possible when putting together your weekly meals. Before you buy anything, ask yourself if you really need it or if you'll really use it.
Conserve energy. You may not be able to make big changes to your apartment, but you can do your part to do little things to save energy. Switch to fluorescent bulbs, winterize your windows, and turn off lights when you're not using them. You can also watch for energy vampires and hook your household devices up to power strips to save even more.
Go paperless. Tired of getting a pile of mostly useless mail everyday? Unsubscribe yourself from mailing lists and change your bills so that they're paperless to help conserve paper and save you time.
Clean green. You can get your home, clothes, and even yourself clean without using harsh chemicals. Look for green products or make your own at home from natural ingredients.
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