Purchasing

If you cannot come up with a useful and reasonable need for something, go without. Producing, using and eventually disposing of what is not really needed accelerates the depletion of finite natural resources, exacerbates industrial, commercial and municipal pollution and expands the waste stream. Life wouldn't be the same without the occasional indulgence for self and pleasure-the operative word is "occasional." Refraining, more often than not, from making excessive purchases will go a long way in minimizing the effect our collective acquisitions have on the planet.

One you've decided to buy something, the next step is to accurately assess how much you need. Always go with the smaller or least of something to satisfy your need. Whether you're buying home furnishings, a car, a new appliance or toys for the kids, buy consistent with practical requirements. Try not to buy based on a big budget, a product's image, the space you have at home or the pleadings of little voices. Every super-sized and unnecessary purchase adds up against the environment.

The final step in completing a greener purchasing decision is to choose the product that causes the least environmental harm. Products include the obvious tangibles like food, electronics, clothing and office supplies and intangibles too, like vacation packages, utilities and country club memberships. And products are an integral part of services you may be in need of, like interior designing, event planning, day care, catering, housecleaning and lawn maintenance. One purchase at a time, start to acquire knowledge about the products and materials you intend to buy outright, and those you'll buy when choosing a particular service contractor.