There are thousands of “green” hotels worldwide. Find one by using the Green Hotels Association’s search guide. “Green” hotels offer amenities such as low-flow showerheads, environmentally friendly shampoos and soaps, organic foods in their restaurants and much more.

– Nima Kapadia

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Many restaurants are becoming eco-friendly. The Green Restaurant Association provides a list of dining establishments that use organic foods, energy-efficient lighting, natural cleaning supplies and recycling initiatives.

– Nima Kapadia

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Transportation accounts for more than 30 percent of carbon dioxide emissions in the U.S. Reduce the amount by carpooling. You will also save half on your weekly fuel costs, according to Fueleconomy.gov.

– Nima Kapadia

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You don’t need to purchase a new vehicle to be “green.” Instead, make changes to your existing vehicle. Consider switching to alternative fuels and conducting routine maintenance. Visit fueleconomy.gov for additional tips on “greening” your vehicle.

– Nima Kapadia

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Seal air leaks in your attic and basement. Doing so can save you 10 to 20 percent utility bills, according to Energy Star. Learn how to properly seal your home.

– Nima Kapadia

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Don’t confuse “second-hand” with the clothing your brothers and sisters outgrew. There are a variety of boutiques and thrift stores that offer fashionable, second-hand clothing. It reduces the amount of energy used in producing a new clothing item. For more information, see our story Eco-friendly clothing breaks out of the mold.

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Foods that are purchased locally have fewer “petroleum miles” than foods shipped across the country. Support your local farmers by purchasing foods from farmers’ markets and co-ops in your area. Visit Local Harvest or USDA to find one where you live.

– Nima Kapadia

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Plant a tree with your children as a fun, outdoor activity. Have your children choose their own tree, name it and be responsible for its care. Visit The Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Guide for more information on caring for trees.

– Nima Kapadia

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Bamboo is a “greener” alternative to traditional wood fences. Bamboo, when growing, absorbs more carbon dioxide than most trees. It’s sturdy, fast growing and renewable. For more information, see our story Good fences: made with bamboo.

– Nima Kapadia

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Mugs are an important staple as the coffee that’s in it. Coffee mugs are reusable and can save hundreds of disposable cups. Personalize your own mug at Zazzle, Cafepress or even Starbucks.

– Nima Kapadia

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Sixty percent of the energy associated with a piece of clothing is spent washing and drying it, according to a Cambridge University study. Hang your clothes on a line instead. There are many indoor and outdoor lines on the market. For more information, see our story Hung out to dry: the clothesline reconsidered.

– Nima Kapadia

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Meat is a resource-intensive food that gives new meaning to the phrase, “eat your vegetables.” According to a UN Food and Agricultural Organization report, 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions come from livestock. The livestock sector also accounts for 8 percent of global human water use. One pound of beef requires 12,000 gallons of water to produce.

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