These green tips can be used by everyone, whether you identify as a geek or not, but I’ve tailored the article for our specific fan-base to include cool products and specific ways that we can all make small changes in our lives to be a bit more environmentally friendly.
1. Read digital comics and books
Collecting comics can be tedious and all those issues take up space. Many of them don’t end up getting reread all that much either. The newest way to read comics is digitally, which makes it easier to organize (especially if you don’t have a lot of room on your bookshelf) and is way more environmentally friendly because of how much paper it saves. There are plenty of websites to guide you on your quest for digital reads including Comixology and the official sites for each publishing company. And if you’re someone who wants a hard copy, try collecting graphic novels rather than individual issues to save plastic.
2. Use reusable bags
This is something everyone can do but for those of a geeky persuasion there are some really cool bags out there you can buy. Use them to go shopping for clothes, food, Batman figurines, whatever! A quick Google search can turn up a plethora of styles, or you can use websites like Etsy, Amazon, Ebay, etc. Even your basic department stores like Wal-Mart and Target have them. Check out this awesome Doctor Who bag from Ebay.
3. Cut down on your driving
Going on a long journey to a super awesome convention? Car pool or take public transportation. Same thing goes for driving to work or pretty much any other transportation. It’s something everyone knows is useful but few people actually take advantage of. And think of the gas money you’ll save!
4. Invest in reusable drinking containers
Water bottles are a terrible addition to the amount of non-degradable garbage littering our planet. Using a safe reusable water bottle not only cuts down a significant amount of plastic you use but can save you a crap-ton of money in the long run. You can also try reusable coffee cops and other styles. There are plenty of geeky designs out there for hot and cold beverages and you can find many of them in your local comic book store or department store. Check out these Harry Potter ones from Zazzle.
5. Unplug and turn off
We all know that turning off appliances can save electricity (good for the environment AND your electric bill) but did you know that even if an appliance is off but still plugged in that it’s using energy? For those of us who love our technology (laptops, phone chargers, video games, blu-ray players) we should consider this tip. I try to keep everything unplugged that doesn’t need to be plugged in. Another tiny lifestyle change that can make a huge difference in the long run.
6. Rethink your eating habits
I’m not going to tell anyone what they should or should not eat but it’s common knowledge that by cutting out meat (and dairy) you can reduce your carbon footprint. If you’ve ever been interested in becoming vegetarian or vegan, why not do a two-week trial period to see if it works for you? But if going meat-free is not for you then you can still do your part food-wise. Buy local and organic foods to support your economy and environment and use reusable lunch totes instead of styrofoam takeout containers. And if you’re up for it, try having Meatless Mondays!
7. Don’t be afraid to go second-hand
Buying used items like dvds, books, or electronics can cut down on our overproduction of non-recyclable materials. Try using Craigslist or Freecycle. Shopping at thrift stores, especially for costumes, is not only better for your wallet but can be fun as well.
8. Take shorter showers
Water is the most precious resource on the planet and saving it will also save on your water bill. Plus, if you spend less time showering then you have more time to marathon episodes of Buffy!
9. Use energy efficient products
Buying products that use less energy is another way to save electricity and money. Use energy efficient light bulbs to shine light on your awesome collection! You can even buy LED Christmas lights!
