Oct 25

Since it is well established that I’m a GTD junky, I thought I would explore the idea of applying GTD principles to living a sustainable life.

There are two major axes to sustainable living; efficiency and reuse.  And a major principle of GTD, if it takes less than 2 minutes to get it done; do it.  

Here are 10 things you can do for the environment that don’t require more than a moment to complete.  

 

Water Bottles

Water Bottles

 

1. Wash you clothes on the Gentle Cycle.  The motor doesn’t have to work as hard. (Estimated Time: Less than 2 seconds).

2. Replace a lightbulb with a Compact Fluorescent. Lasts 10 times longer, burns cooler, and uses about a quarter of the energy to operate. (Estimated Time: 1 minute).

3. Close the Door Behind You.  Don’t cool or heat rooms you aren’t using. (Estimated Time: 2 seconds).

4. Shave with an Electric Razor.  Water not required. (Estimated Time: 2 minutes to pick up the razor at Target; 0 to choose it)

5. Grab your Travel Mug on the Way out the Door.  Stop using all that paper at the Coffee Shop. (Estimated Time: 2 minutes to find the mug and rinse it out)

6. Refill your water bottle at the Water Cooler. Stop filling the landfill with those little plastic bottles. (Estimated Time: 1 minute)

7. Turn on Cruise Control on the Highway.  Be smooth and conserve expensive fuel.  (Estimated Time: 20 seconds).

8. Set your Refrigerator to 37 degrees F.  The Fridge accounts for 20% of your household electricity use. (Estimated Time 2 minutes to find and set, though depending on your unit, you mileage may vary).

9. Put on a Sweater and a Pair of Socks.  Before you turn up the heat put on some clothing. (Estimated Time: 2 minutes). 

10. Unplug your Appliances. Avoid overtime wasted electricity.  (Estimated Time: 2 seconds per plug).