Setting a good example

Setting a good example for your kids is one of the best ways to parent. The “do as I say, not as I do” technique didn’t work when our parents tried it on us, and it won’t work when we try it on our kids. Going green is not only a lifestyle choice good for the environment; it's a way to save cash. Frugality and ecological sustainability often go hand in hand. Teach your children valuable lessons about how to be both economically and environmentally responsible. Here are some tips.

At home Energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs may have a more expensive price tag initially than their more wasteful counterparts, but, in the long run, they are actually cheaper.

For example, a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) lasts about six times longer than an incandescent bulb, according to EnergyStar.gov. Furthermore, it uses about a quarter of the electricity. If you are buying fewer bulbs and using less energy, each CFL can end up saving you $6 per year in energy costs. One bulb can save more than $40 over its lifetime.”

At the office Think about what materials you are using and ask your kids to help you come up with ways you can conserve or cut back. Paper isn't used as often in the office as it used to be, but a surprising area where you can be more green is your mail and postage. If you haven't heard of a postage meter, it can be a great way to conserve with mail. On top of reducing the amount of time that you have to spend in the post office or the nearby FedEx, this device will cut back on waste and overuse. This postage machine can potentially cut your mailing costs by as much as 20% in a year, according to pitneyworks.com.

Shopping Have a reusable canvas bag handy. This is a great way to teach your child that the proper response to the paper or plastic dilemma is “neither.” Buying products that use less packaging or eco-friendly ingredients shows kids to watch for these products that promote sustainability. Get your produce from a local farmer's market. Take your kids and let them explore different booths to pick out fruits and vegetables. They can learn about where the food comes from and how it grows and you will be supporting local businesses.