These days not "going green" is almost a thing of the past. In most circles, not being aware of the current state of our environment or what you can do to help it qualifies you as being "not cool", "irresponsible", or even "ignorant". With an ozone layer that is depleting by the day, massive climate inconsistencies, and agricultural abnormalties, who can blame the sometimes "green fanatics" for being mother earth's voice.

There are various ways to do one's part to contribute to the "green movement". Seeing as everything begins somewhere, small changes in our daily lives are a great starting point. Many people choose to "speak" with their purchasing power. These people may buy "earth-friendly" goods e.g. items made with less plastic, items manufactured using renewable wind energy, items that use less energy, items that are 100% recycled, or items containing recycled paperboard. These are all great starters remembering consistency is key.

Another small step towards going green is to change the way you purchase and consume fresh fruits and vegetables. Consider this, when you purchase from places such as your local farmer's market, you are supporting your local farmers. When you support your local farmers, you are helping to reduce harmful emissions into the environment, consume less natural resources such as gas, all while stimulating your local economy. Local farmers use less gasoline and emit less harmful emissions, because they are traveling shorter distances than a company that imports oranges from the south, nectarines from overseas, and grapes from the midwest. Another aspect to consider is purchasing in-season produce. When you purchase produce that is not in season in a particular region and not being greenhouse grown locally, then you are definitely purchasing from suppliers that are adding to environmental issues by importing to various regions. This may be hard to swallow, but change is not always easy. Just remember...small steps.

Those willing to try their "green" thumb may also consider growing home gardens. With a home garden you are making the same great green contributions previously mentioned and then some. You use your physical energy to prepare, grow, and harvest your own garden. What a great deal for those who dare!

The last area we will consider in taking small steps to going green are household items. Americans alone, can sway the products companies produce in a single month using only their purchasing power. When you use trash bags, aluminum foil, and paper products that are made with post consumer products (recycled), you are letting the companies know that this is what you want and are willing to pay for. When you buy compact fluorescent bulbs over incandescent ones -that last not half as long and are more detrimental to the environment and landfills, you are again saying "This is what I want and am willing to pay for." When you purchase cleaners derived from natural plant sources rather than harsh and harmful chemicals you are letting them know that you want better for your family and your environment. When you purchase reusable shopping bags, turning down the grocers plastic bags, and receive discounts per bag you bring (at some stores, e.g. Kroger) you are saying "Thank you for helping me help my world."

Remember that a whole is made up of smaller parts. The small steps that you take, the small changes you incorporate into your daily life all add up to a large part of a successful Green Movement. Who better to help solve a problem than those that contributed to the problem. Some may argue too little, too late, to them I say:   " Every little bit helps." Happy going green!