The annual Green Living Show, Canada’s largest consumer show dedicated to all things green, takes place in Toronto every April. Ford of Canada was at this year’s event with a dynamic eco-friendly display featuring our sustainable vehicles.
On the opening day of the show, the 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid won the inaugural Canadian Green Car of the Year Award, presented by AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada). Not only was the Ford Blog there to celebrate the big win, but we also spoke with some of today’s green leaders to hear their perspectives on living green.
For those of you who think that moving towards a greener lifestyle is easier said than done, we have some personal tips and tricks from the experts that can guide you. And, if you’re someone who considers themselves to be cost conscious, you’ll be pleased to learn how taking a leap to the green side might also save you some of your hard-earned green! Check out the video above to learn more.
Tips for Living a Greener Lifestyle
The Community Ambassador for the inclusive Sweat Equity yoga magazine says to add yoga to your life because of the direct link it has with conscious green living. Yoga is all about being present and becoming more mindful of yourself and your surroundings. Many people who practice yoga find they start to become more aware of the foods they are putting into their bodies, as well as their natural world.
The owner of Boss Solar gave us some great advice on straightforward energy efficient changes you can make to your home right now. Mike says it’s time to change those light bulbs – out with the old (incandescent light bulbs) and in with the new (compact fluorescents or LED lights). While you’re at it, get rid of your halogens, which are mega energy guzzlers.
The Executive Director of the Organic Council of Ontario shared easy grocery shopping tips to help ensure healthier, greener meals. One of Jodi’s simple tips was to ask people to try and purchase one or two organic products a week. Every little bit helps!
Eric Novak, better known as Enviro Dad, urges people to stop thinking of “Green” as a radical concept. Becoming green is all about making better, more informed choices. Eric shared, “I hope one day I can say I am an automotive journalist, without having to add the word ‘green’ in front of it. I’m an ‘eco-auto journalist’ but I’d be the happiest guy around if I could tell you down the road that I’m just an ‘auto journalist’ because everybody buys green cars. We’ve got to get rid of that moniker – that it’s ‘alternative.’ It’s just living.”
Originally from Montreal, Tara St. James is the Owner and Creative Director for the sustainable clothing line Study NY. She reveals how the “made in” label can say a lot. A great and easy way to help the planet is by making mindful clothing purchases. By identifying brands that manufacture clothing locally, you are not only supporting the economy but also helping to reduce carbon emissions that occur when products are shipped from overseas. Not only does Tara have her clothing manufactured locally, but she also uses “zero waste cutting,” meaning no fabric is wasted. Tara uses more durable textiles to ensure clothing lasts longer. She also creates designs that have a timeless appeal and will always be in fashion, as opposed to being this year’s latest trend.
Ford Green Tip
Make sure all your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires can reduce your fuel economy by up to 3.3 per cent!
Bonus:
Check out the video below to see Ford EV expert Steve Ross explain how you can live green with Ford.
We challenge you to infuse a little green into your life. Let us know how you are doing so in the comments below and you could be featured in a blog post!