Earth Day 2012: A Billion Acts of Green

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As I was reading Real Simple magazine the other night, I came across an advertisement for Earth Day 2012, and this.  A goal to make One Billion acts of green.  Basically, you go on the site, and make a pledge as to something you'll start doing, continue doing, or stop doing in an effort to be more economically responsible.  Whereas you can read more here, watch this brief video explaining:

Here are some examples of what has already been pledged:

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Simple, right? I liked the last one, using the numerous reusable shopping totes I've picked up over the years.  There are actually some supermarkets out there that will give you off a few cents per bag you use! The supermarket I used to frequent while living in NJ, Superfresh, offered $.08 per bag if I remember correctly.  Ask your supermarket the next time you're there.  It may not seem like much, but the savings add up! You're not only helping the environment, you're saving money.

There are some pledges that are not feasible for all, but we can all do something. Cut back on paper plates, napkins, etc.  I know they're convenient, but think of all that trash!

There are 8 'Acts of Green' to choose from, or you can type in your own.  The 8 already there are:

• Bike to Work!
• Call or write my legislator about going green
• Change out my lightbulbs
• Circulate anti-coal petition
• Eliminate use of pesticides and toxic cleaning products
• Get home energy audit, do what it says
• Organize an Earth Day Event
• Plant a garden at school or home

Here is what my husband and I have committed to this year.

We commit to continue:

• Using our solar panels which my husband made

• Using energy efficient lightbulbs
• Turning out lightbulbs after we leave a room
• Keeping the heat at 68 or below and dressing warmer
• Air drying linens to save approximately $1+/load and energy
• Purchasing energy star appliances

I have to brag a little bit here...as a result of the above, my husband has gotten our electric bill from last month to $6.94. Yes, you read that right....

$6.94. 

It can be done.  If we can do it, so can you.

Going into 2012, our new pledges will be:

• Start an energy efficiency consulting business
• Build more solar panels
• Bike to work
• Stationary bike for working out that will produce power
• Wash more laundry in cold water

What will you be doing?