When I hear people talk about low impact living I always think of the 1970’s British Comedy The Good Life, or Good Neighbors as it was known here in the United States. A couple decides to escape the commercialism of life and become totally self-sufficient in their home near London. It’s entertaining to see their successes and failures. If you watch it now, it’s not as shocking to think of someone living “off the grid.” They had essentially adopted a low impact lifestyle, with more of a focus on self-sufficiency than their impact on the environment.

A 1975 British sitcom called “The Good Life” in the United Kingdom. When it came to the U.S. it was called “Good Neighbors” and appeared on PBS stations.

It is easy to feel guilty or overwhelmed when everywhere you turn someone is telling you to grow your own food, buy organic, bike to work, raise chickens in your backyard, install solar panels, etc.  It is important to not be overwhelmed or stressed out because you think you have to do it all. You don’t! It’s not all or nothing.  At this point in time I don’t see myself becoming totally self-sufficient. I have adopted a modified version of affordable low-impact living that starts where I am now, and from there I move forward one step at a time towards a healthier and greener life. If we all do this, collectively we can make a big difference.

Here are some ways you can start living a low-impact lifestyle:

  • Make changes that work for you and your family.
  • If you don’t already recycle, begin recycling.
  • Reduce your consumption of consumer goods by 33%, and purchase more used goods.
  • Repair clothing and furniture instead of purchasing new items.
  • Stop using your garbage disposal for fruit and vegetable waste, and start composting.
  • As you replace appliances and electronic devices, select ENERGY STAR models.
  • When you need new batteries, buy rechargeable batteries.
  • Repair leaky faucets. You’ll save money and water.
  • Make green cleaning products to use in your home.

Start one step at a time. This is what I refer to as “low-impact living the low-stress way.”  It helps keep you and your bank account healthy.

Over the next several months watch for more information on living greener and healthier.  In the meantime visit my website – www.ugagreenway.org – for more on green and healthy living.

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