A simple way you can start consuming responsibly is examining your actions.

1. Buy local food
2. Support your local economy
3. Buy organic
4. Buy fair trade products,
5. Purchase vintage products
6. Think of your dollar as a vote (cash in, make change!)
7. Use energy efficient light bulbs
8. Use fewer household chemicals
9. Turn off unnecessary lights
10. Turn your thermostat down by 1 degree
11. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth
12. Use energy efficient appliances
13. Reuse and recycle all that you can
14. Use a mug instead of a coffee cup
15. Use both sides of every sheet of paper
16. Buy things with less packaging
17. Choose a fuel efficient car
18. Use public transportation
19. Give a neighbor a ride to work
20. Spread the word and be a good example
21. Spend less time consuming

Also, don’t forget to be a part of the Rainmaker Network—help us get closer to our goal of reducing the carbon footprints of college students and employers all across the USA.

Whew.

Also called downshifting, many people opt for a simpler lifestyle for good reasons: wanting to live a more fulfilling lifestyle; clashes between their values and their current environment; or wanting to live in harmony. Considering the current economic climate it doesn’t take a genius to understand that consuming less can definitely lead you to a deeper appreciation of the things you currently have. The timeless adage, “Less is more” definitely applies to the environmental cause.

You don’t have to replace all of your current wares with the most green items on the market. However, you should consider eco-friendly purchases when it comes time to buy new items. For example, when replacing paper towels for the kitchen, why not purchase recycled
towels or hand towels instead?

Green isn't hip. It isn't fashionable. It is a choice and a way of life.

Let's keep it that way by combating myths about green lifestyles.