If you could pick 5 things

[USAmma]

I was at one point a very eco friendly stay at home mama. Enter full time nursing school and that has kinda gone out the window. I'm trying to pick a few things to do in order to get back into being more eco friendly as a family.

I have started line drying again since I'm off school for a couple more weeks. I'm a big fan of thrift stores, and we are vegetarian, and we always recycle (but we also buy a lot of things in containers that need to be recycled). The thermostat stays at 84 to save energy, and I have foil on the windows to keep it cool (we live in Phoenix). So I guess that's something. I hope to continue the line drying once school starts. What else could I do that is manageable on a busy schedule and limited budget?

[ollyoxenfree]

It sounds like you are doing a good job.

The easiest things to focus on with a busy schedule and limited budget would be "reduce". Making sure you really need something before you buy and mindful shopping when you do helps a lot. I think people forget that not doing anything (i.e. NOT consuming) can be just as helpful as doing something.

[neonalee]

I found using cloth for household use rather than paper towels or napkins was a really easy switch (have my own washer/dryer). There are always things that can be used for this at Goodwill/Sal Army and I'm doing laundry anyway.

[Katie T]

This is green and saves money but what about vinegar and water for cleaning.
I second cloth around the house instead of paper products. they dont really seem to add much to the wash pile and save money and the environment.


It sounds like you are doing a really good job with your busy schedule!

[isabchi]

My list could be:

*reusable water bottles
*prepare luch to go in advance...save money and package.
*buy on bulk..lest packages, times and trip to the store.
*limite the buying of new stuff,....check freecycle, craigtlist,etc
*limit the use and/or buy of plastic as much if possible

[e13lorena]

My Five when I was working Full Time:

• Using Cloth Items (Napkins, Toilet Wipes, Diapers, Rags & Towels)
• Washing on Cold - Reducing Heat / Cooling Costs - Line Drying
• Vinegar, Baking Soda, & Salt for Cleaning
• Growing Some (if only a little bit) of your own Food
• Stay out of the stores (if you're busy, should be easy), but always have a list with you

Erin