There are hundreds, if not thousands, of ways to live an environmentally friendly life. Some require great sacrifices. Most do not.

They all add up. All the bad things we’ve done to the earth in the last 200 years have combined to create the global mess we find ourselves in now. It might take 200 years to put a dent in fixing it. We have to start sometime and it might as well be now.

We likely will never see the long-term results of the efforts we can start making today and every day for the rest of our lives, but those who come in the next two or three centuries will either directly benefit or suffer further. The choice begins now and in our own homes.

Here are a handful of ways to help the earth by living more responsibly.

Reduce Your Living Space

Start by buying a smaller home. We do not really need giant houses. We might think we do, but it’s really not necessary. Big houses mean big bills for heating and cooling. Both require energy and this results in pollution. Smaller homes mean smaller demands, more reasonable bills and less damage to the environment.

Heat and Cool in Moderation

Keep your home cool, not freezing cold in the summer. In winter, keep it warm instead of hot. Anything more is a waste, especially if nobody's home. Use your energy wisely. Turn off the lights and other gadgets when not in use or when you will be away for prolonged periods.