Going green and living in luxury apartments need not be mutually exclusive. It’s never been easier to “go green” and anybody, even you—can become a great caretaker of our community. So, if you’ve been looking for ways to conserve energy (you’ll probably have to start nixing those hour-long baths in your garden tubs), read on! You may be surprised to find out just how many green infractions you and your personal space have been accumulating thus far:

1. Unplug electronics that you are no longer using. TVs, accessories and neighboring electronics (hello, computers!) are eating a lot more energy than you might think, even in their “sleep”. This goes for charges as well.
2. Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) and toss out the incandescent bulbs when they burn out. CFL uses less wattage by making light instead of needing to convert light into heat.
3. Plant an herb garden (basil, cilantro, chives, and oregano— delicious!) or shop at your local farmer’s market when you can. This small task will help reduce the emissions created from transporting food long distances.
4. Switch an appliance or two to an energy-efficient model. “Energy Star” is one of several brands to look for.
5. Wash laundry with cold water instead of hot. This will conserve about 80% of the energy used under a “hot” laundry setting.
6. Cut back on your long showers! Yes, it’s great to feel that warmth against your skin for so long, but if you’re serious about trying something different and good for your environment, it’s time to reduce your time behind the curtain.
7. Turn the water off in the interim of teeth-brushing! And, if you rinse dishes off before placing them in the dishwasher, either fill up the sink with water first and then scrub off, or turn the water off in between rinsing dishes.
8. Flick the lights off when you leave a room. This goes for the oft-forgotten closet light as well. The next time you step out of your walk-in closet, make sure to turn off the lights if you’ve decided you’re looking smart and don’t need to try on anything else.
9. Use cloth napkins instead of paper, print on recycled paper, and buy reusable water bottles. Remember, the goal is to create less waste!
10. Yes, it gets incredibly hot in and around Houston's luxury apartments during the summer, but don’t let that rule over your thermostat. Be gentle on the environment and consider making your home less like a freezer during the upcoming summer months.

Come on over to the “green” side! Start out small: make a commitment to try out at least one suggestion this week. 

Don't forget to let us know if you have any other green suggestions, or how living green has worked out for you!