Outdoor Architecture is all about organic living. What does that mean? In our business it means using environmentally-friendly alternatives to fertilizers, pest control and soil. It also means incorporating native plants into your landscape.

But going green also means utilizing organic methods in everyday life. As our society becomes more consumer-driven, there’s more demand for mass-production goods and services. That means that as more energy and resources are used, there is more harm to our individual health and to our planet.

What can you do? First, remember that every little bit helps. You can go green in your home and in your workplace, taking care of your small corner of the world. It’s also an opportunity to set good examples for your children, while protecting the Earth for their children and beyond.

Despite what some people think, going green is really easy. It’s just a matter of being committed. I also believe there is a misconception that living an organic lifestyle is both difficult and expensive. That couldn’t be further from the truth. It only takes a little imagination and a commitment to our planet.

Here are 10 ways you can go organic:

• Buy produce and other foods at one of our local farmer’s market rather than the grocery store. For more information on our local markets, click here. 
• A garden is a wonderful and inexpensive alternative to buying produce. Choose fruits and/or vegetables that you know you will eat or can freeze and use later. Additionally, getting your children involved can be a fun and rewarding opportunity. For more, click here.
• Compost bins are easy ways to get good, rich soil that acts as a natural fertilizer for your homegrown organic garden.
• Plant an indoor organic herb garden. Your food will taste better and be more nutritious.
• Switch to cold water washing and save money and energy used for laundry.
• Each degree you turn down the heat saves 3 percent of heating costs, while each degree you raise the temperature of your air conditioner saves 3-4 percent of cooling costs.
• Nearly every major supermarket chain now carries its own line of USDA certified organic foods under their own private label, so look for it the next time you’re in your favorite grocery store.
• Serving vegetarian meals two nights a week is not only an easy way to help you lose weight and improve your health, it also allows you to free up more food dollars to put toward organic options.
• Replacing five incandescent bulbs with compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs) can save a significant amount on your annual lighting bill.
• By checking your bank account online and signing up for online accounts with creditors, you can eliminate the need for paper bills and monthly statements.
• We’ve got tons more tips on our on our Facebook page, including everything from how to save money when shopping for organic foods, homemade beauty treatments and more energy-saving tips. We’ll also be providing tips on how to throw green parties, how to go green at work and much more.

We’d also love to have you share your suggestions. Start a discussion on our Facebook wall or follow us on Twitter.

Finally, remember that as the new year begins, it’s a great time to resolve to reuse and recycle and to reduce our carbon footprint. The future literally depends upon it.