Green Consumers

          Every day, tremendous amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) are put into the atmosphere, causing global warming. Due to ecological changes, the earth's temperature is rising, and it becomes more uncomfortable for all of us to subsist in this planet. It is important for each individual to educate himself about global warming so that we can help slowdown the emission of green house gases and make better decisions about the products that are consumed.
          To slow global warming, we need to reduce the amount of CO2 that is released into the atmosphere. Individual consumers can help slow down global warming. Those who are environmentally conscious, and make an effort to buy eco-friendly products are called "green consumers". There are little things that each and everyone of us can do to reduce the impact of carbon dioxide; like recycling, taking your reusable bags to the supermarket or at least asking for paper bags instead of plastic, turn off unneeded lights, unplug unused electronics and buy only what is actually needed. Also boycott products that emit a lot of CO2. When we do this, we force companies to make products that are eco-friendly and reduce the CO2 emissions.
          Reducing the impact on the planet can also help to save money. For example, we can dim or turn off unneeded lights, if possible use natural sunlight, get rid of incandescent light bulbs and replace them with fluorescent light bulbs. Fluorescent light bulbs are more efficient, they last longer, give more light, and use only a quarter of energy that the incandescent type; therefore, saving you money on the electric bill. In addition to incandescent light bulbs, the refrigerator is a big energy consumer, responsible for about 15% of the electricity you use each month. Some of the things we can do with the refrigerators to save energy are: turn on the energy saver switch, don't set the thermostat too high and make sure the door seals properly at all times.
          Furthermore, fuel-efficient cars like hybrids are another great option when trying to help the planet, and save money on the long run. Public transportation, carpooling, driving less and walking when feasible are also great options.
          At the present time, we see more companies doing a greater effort to incorporate more energy-saving home appliances, fuel-efficient cars, biodegradable products that emit less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, etc. As consumers, we should make an effort to demand eco-friendly products in order to start slowing down global warming. It is also important to start recycling as much as possible and educationg younger generations about how to prevent CO2 emissions