In the past several years the term “go green” has become more and more popular. It went from a verb to an adjective, landing itself in everyday conversations. However, those who aren’t entirely familiar with this concept will want to understand it a bit better. This article focuses on some of the common questions and concepts about going green.
What exactly does it mean when someone says “go green”? For some people it brings about visions of vegans hugging trees and altering their lifestyles. You’ll be happy to know that anyone can “go green,” even you! You don’t have to alter your lifestyle to become a friend to the environment. For example, choosing to take a few canvas sacks on your next shopping spree and refusing the plastic bags is a starting point. Avoid using paper towels and plates in your home. Replace them with cloth towels and ceramic plates instead. Choose to recycle plastics, paper and old electronics. These are just some of the simple ways you can make a huge impact on your environment.
You’ll probably be surprised to hear that some countries are on top of it all when it comes to going green. Believe it or not, the United States is one of the least successful! Norway is among the rank of “go green” countries who have taken the first step in reducing carbon monoxide emissions quite successfully. Switzerland is up there in ranks when it comes to lowering air pollution, as they charge for waste and water management services. Other countries that find themselves ahead of the U.S. are Costa Rica, Sweden, Iceland and Denmark.
The United States has doubled its efforts in the past years to become green, but other countries are far ahead of Americans in their successes. Many big name companies based in the U.S. are looking for ways that they can become more friendly to the environment. The U.S.’s going green efforts date all the way back to the early 70s, but unfortunately after many governmental acts and debates, they’re just not quite there yet.
Solar power has become one of the most common types of green energy. It harnesses the power of the sun and converts it to electricity. Wind energy ranks on top as also one of the most useful energy types. Wind turbines help take wind and transform it into mechanical energy or electricity. Geothermal energy has recently become a popular form of heating for residential units. This form of energy is extracted from the Earth. Electricity that is powered by bodies of water is also another popular energy form. It is widely known as hydroelectricity which produces little or almost no waste.
Living a green lifestyle is important in order for our planet to survive. The past decade has given way to some of the most earth friendly countries and incorporated the use of very innovative green energy resources. This article has hopefully helped you understand a bit more about “going green” and what types of energy are beneficial.
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