From Guest Blogger John McMalcolm: Convincing the Doubters To Go Green

It is great that you are doing your part to save the environment, but you can do more by convincing others to contribute to the cause?

There are many people who are still not making a conscious effort to adopt a green lifestyle, probably because they think that it is costly and troublesome to do so. Some people are even skeptical about the effectiveness of environmental efforts.

Here are a number of things that individuals, groups, organizations and businesses can do to convince even doubters to go green.

Explain the Financial Benefits

One of the most effective ways to encourage people to take measures to protect the environment is to tell them about the financial benefits of going green.

Actions to save energy, such as switching off electrical devices when not in use, installing energy-efficient light bulbs and programmable thermostat, using Energy Star qualified products, installing solar panels and re-insulating homes or buildings can reduce utility bills substantially.

Also, switching to a hybrid or electric car can help them save considerably on gas. Some of these measures enable them to get tax credits, which add to their savings.

They can also get financial rewards by recycling their waste products, which can be anything ranging from plastic bottles to mobile phones.

Appeal to Their Health

Going green does not only help people save money; it can also be beneficial to their health.

Tell them about the health benefits of eating home grown or organic vegetables and fruits that are not treated with chemicals or preservatives.

Also, riding a bicycle instead of driving a car to nearby places can improve their health and fitness, as well as reduce pollution.

Put Eco-Friendly Living into Perspective

Some people are hesitant about adopting a green lifestyle because they are unsure how such a lifestyle will be perceived by others.

Let them know that going green has become a norm these days, and many people, businesses and organizations are doing their parts to reduce environmental damage.

Show them examples of environmental efforts in everyday life, such as the use of reusable grocery bags and the prevalence of recycling bins.

Additionally, you can educate them about the dangers of environmental degradation, such as the possible health effects of pollution and the problems that threaten the future of the world.

Lead by Example

In order to convince other people that living a green lifestyle is important and beneficial, you need to set a good example.

By doing eco-friendly things while you are with them, you can show them that going green is not unusual or difficult. You can even invite them to your home to show them the various measures you have taken to save energy and help protect the environment.

The key to successful environmental protection lies in public cooperation.

The more people you can convince to join the green movement, the greater the chance that the world will have a sustainable future.

About the Author: John McMalcolm is a freelance writer who writes on a wide range of subjects, from environmental protection to small business reputation management.