With the hype surrounding global warming, many people have chosen to go "green" and manufacturers followed suit. Thus, green living is now not only accessible, but more inexpensive than before. To get you started, here are a few simple ways to help lessen the impact of the way we leave on the environment.

Fluorescent light bulbs

Using compact fluorescent light bulbs rather than incandescent ones can help decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Fluorescent light bulbs use less energy and last about 10x longer that incandescent bulbs.

Low flow shower head

Bathing with the water on full force can be an enjoyable and relaxing daily experience. However, it uses up too much water. To lessen your water usage yet still feel the high water pressure, use low flow shower heads. These shower heads combine air with the running water so you can feel the same pressure as a regular shower head. Low flow shower heads are said to be able to decrease water usage by as much as 20%.

Solar electric system

Solar panels are not cheap. But in the long run, you will be rewarded as a solar electric system can replace you present energy source.

Organic cotton material

Organic cotton materials are not only comfortable but they are grown without chemical fertilizers, pesticides or insecticides.

Baking soda

Baking soda can be used for a lot of things such as whiteners, laundry additives and a cleaner, and is less harmful to the environment than your present products.

Hybrid cars

Hybrid cars are expensive. But in the long run, it is really well worth it as you can save as much as $500 a year on gas. Not to mention that it will cut carbon emission by up to 30%.

You can also start making small changes in your life such as turning down the heat or air-conditioning a little, unplugging appliances that you are not using, saving kitchen scraps that you can use for compost instead of throwing them into the trash, and quiting bad habits such as smoking to help lessen our negative impact on our planet.