Easy ways to go green

The nest

Change your light bulbs. We're sure you've heard this before -- and we know it's tempting to buy the four-pack of bulbs for $2 -- but compact fluorescent bulbs use two-thirds less energy and last 10 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs.
Bring your own mug to Starbucks. You'll get a 10-cent discount, and it's one less paper cup to end up in a landfill. While you're there, pick up some free bags of spent coffee grounds to use as "green" fertilizer in your garden.
Save water. Run the dishwasher only when it's full and don't pre-rinse dishes (a waste of time, water, and energy). But the real water drain is the shower -- take shorter ones.
Turn off your computer. When in standby mode, your PC is still using energy. In fact, 75 percent of electricity used in your home comes from electronics that are turned off. Stop this phantom electro rush by plugging your computer into a power strip and shutting the strip down completely at the end of the day. Also, remove your iPod, digital camera, and phone chargers from outlets when not in use.
Cancel catalogs. Many of us have a steady flow of unwanted and unsolicited junk mail, catalogs, and magazines. Let's say everyone in New York City received 10 a month: That would make 240,248 tons of paper waste!
Reuse plastic bags. Instead of chucking 100 billion plastic sacks a year (wow!), try and get a second, third, or tenth use out of them. Tote your lunch to work or your groceries home in them, or at least use them as garbage bags. Better yet, next time you shop, try a reusable bag. Learn how at reusablebags.com
Green your car. The next time you're in the market for a new car, check out an eco option like a hybrid model -- whatever you do, don't get an SUV. In the meantime, take care of your current ride with regular tune-ups and properly inflated tires.
Use recycled paper... in the bathroom. Most of the TP we use is made from virgin trees found in forests previously untouched by humans. Seeing as trees absorb carbon dioxide, we'd get better use from them living than we would as a roll in the powder room.
Buy energy-efficient appliances. The old fridge conked out. Great! Replace it with an Energy Star appliance (energystar.gov), and you'll use at least 15 percent less energy and water in your home. It might be a little pricier to buy, but you'll be saving money on your utility bills and helping the environment.
Plant a tree. Adding green to your garden is aesthetically -- and earth -- pleasing.
Give and voice your support. Contribute or volunteer with the green organization of your choice. And tell a friend to do the same. Some we like: onepercentfortheplanet.org, saveourenvironment.org, sierraclub.org, and conservationfund.org. Sign the "Emissions Petition" at environmentaldefense.org and send the message to your local government representatives that you want to undo global warming.