The Lasting Effects of Going Green

It's called "going green" when people or businesses change the way they do certain things in order to save energy or help the environment. Going green can have immediate effects, but most effects are seen in the long term. The positive benefits of going green can be experienced both by the person making the changes and in the environment.

Money Savings

• People and businesses that opt to go green can see some other green benefits--extra money, that is. Changing to energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances will save on energy costs in the long term. Choosing to walk or ride a bicycle rather than drive a car will lessen your carbon footprint and save money on gas and tune-ups. Making energy-efficient improvements to your home can be used as a tax write-off and can also increase your home's worth.

Better Health

• Going green can be good for your health. Walking or riding a bicycle instead of driving means getting more exercise, which is good for weight management, heart health and overall health. Another popular way people are going green is eating local, fresh foods. Eating more organic, fresh foods rather than processed, prepackaged foods also can improve your health. When you do that, you will likely increase the amount of vegetables in your diet and decrease the amount of sodium, preservatives and unhealthy fats.

Healthier Environment

• The ultimate long-term effect of going green is helping the environment. Reducing carbon emissions is good for the long-term health of the atmosphere. Items such as plastic and Styrofoam will sit in a landfill for years before they disintegrate. Limiting usage of such items will reduce the amount of trash going to landfills and lessen the amount of space needed for landfills. Recycling also reduces the amount of trash that goes into landfills.