- 1). Make a list of what you need, so you don't feel tempted to buy things on a whim. Ask yourself if you could find the same items at a thrift store or garage sale. In doing so, you'll save those items from being thrown into a dump while lessening the energy used to produce new goods. Reducing, reusing and recycling minimizes the effects of production.
- 2). Carry reusable bags on each shopping trip. Stores across the U.S. sell these bags right at the checkout counter, making it more convenient than ever to use them. You'll usually spend $1 or less on a bag, and they're larger than the typical plastic bag.
- 3). Purchase locally produced goods whenever possible; otherwise, you could be purchasing products shipped from across the country or another continent. Choose foods from a local farmer's market or from the local produce section of a larger store.
- 4). Choose products with minimal packaging. Also choose recyclable packaging when possible, but remember that recycling takes energy. Avoiding packaging in the first place helps the environment more.
- 5). Choose vegetarian foods often, if not always. Raising animals for meat uses far more resources than growing vegetables and plays a large role in global warming. Agriculture -- especially the raising of animals -- accounts for 38 percent of land use and 19 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, so eating less meat can help to stop global warming.
- 6). Look for Energy Star certified items when purchasing electronics. Use Energy Star certified lightbulbs, too. You'll reduce your energy bill while helping the environment.
- 7). Make less frequent trips to the store, if you have to go out of your way to get there. You'll use less gas, spend less at the pump and save yourself time, too. Riding a bike or walking, when possible, also cuts your emissions while giving you exercise.
- 8). Ask the store manager to take steps to reduce the store's impact on global warming. When you can't find a locally produced product, request one. Suggest the store use energy-efficient lighting, cooling and heating systems.
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