For some time I’ve been trying to get greener.

 The problem is knowing where to start. I often feel so bombarded with ways to reduce consumption and emissions that the whole thing becomes mind boggling. I inevitably end up being more eco-worrier than eco-warrior.

However, now that spring has sprung and the equinox is ushering in the warmer days and sprouting flowers, I am determined to take the plunge and really start growing a greener lifestyle. So, I’ve enlisted the help of my family and we are now in the midst of creating a grand Eco-Lifestyle Goal Map.

What has become clear through the Goal Mapping process is that going green is a matter of changing old habit patterns and creating new ones. Getting into the habit of remembering  to take recyclable bags to the supermarket, turning off lights and walking to work occasionally are all little habits that make a big difference.

Once altered, our new green habits quickly become part of daily life and when they are firmly established we can then begin building the next set.

If you are inspired to create an Eco Goal Map, either for home or work, try working on just one area to start with. Find out about all of the small, easy changes you can make and work on establishing those into your lifestyle. Below are some of the different areas that you could focus on and how you can work on changing your smaller habits, build your eco-muscle and become an eco-warrior.

Harness the energy

That wonderful feeling of spring renewal is not your imagination. This time of year nature is budding, birthing and renewing itself. You can plug yourself into this vital energy but remember to give back, by saving energy at home and at work. You can do this by getting into the habit of … 

1. Switching off your mobile phone charger when it’s finished charging. 95% of the energy used by UK mobile phone chargers is wasted. This is because even when people don’t switch off their chargers, it continues to draw almost as much energy as when charging.

2. Switching off your computer monitor when it’s not in use … even if it’s for 15 minutes! The monitor uses twice as much energy as your PC.

3. Installing energy saving light bulbs in every room of the house.

Make Your Spring Cleaning Green

With winter over, many people feel it’s time to give their homes a new lease of life.  Before you start delving around in cupboards, decluttering and throwing out the old, make sure that you keep the environment in mind too and …

1. Recycle as much old stuff as possible. Most people have a charity shop nearby that would welcome any old clothes, books or household items. Alternatively, take them to a car boot sale or put them on Ebay. If you have any old mobile phones hanging around in drawers, you can recycle them too. Many organizations will reimburse you with cash or donate money to a charity in exchange for old phones.

2. Before you pick up your mop and bucket, consider the effect your products are having on the environment. It’s just habit that keeps us buying the same brands when there are plenty of green cleaning products that are as effective and easily available from your supermarket.

3. Commit to recycling kitchen waste more. Even if you’re already a recycler, there is usually more that you can do. Up to 60% of the rubbish that ends up in the dustbin could be recycled.

Travel Green

The birds are doing it. The bees are too. Why not you? Rather than running to jump in your car each morning, try using other, greener modes of transport by building the habit of …

1. Walking to work, taking train or catching the bus. If your destination is close enough you could even get onto your bike or walk. You’ll benefit, not just from the extra exercise, but you will also get the opportunity to experience your environment from a  fresh perspective.

2. Using the stairs rather than the lift. This is a simple way to reduce energy and to build your fitness levels.

3.  Taking a flight free holiday. Who wants another summer of airport delays, extra security and lost luggage looms anyway? You can avoid the chaos and become greener, by booking a barge holiday, a camping holiday or even just a holiday at home.

Below are my Top 5 Going Green websites where you can find a wealth of information about how to go greener this Spring.

1.    Envir0-Gadget features all of the latest news about eco-friendly gadgets and technology. Here you can find everything from solar to wind powered gadgets as well as technology that has been created using eco-friendly principles.

2. The Green Shopping Guide is a fantastic directory that will guide you towards green and ethical products and service providers. It helps you to find all of the green products you want, but without all the hassle. With this website, getting the green habit is easier than ever before.

3. A Self Sufficient Life provides tips, hits and ideas of how you can live a more sustainable lifestyle.

4. Green Lashes and Fashion is one for the girls! This blog will show you the best organic and natural beauty, ethical fashion and lifestyle products for women.

5. The Green Guide - For Every Day Living is  the National Geographic eco-living site. Stuffed with buying guides, fast facts, up to date news and of course – amazing photographs – this is your one stop portal to start going greener today.

 Bethan Stritton