Save Money and Resources

In the interest of saving the planet while we save money for ourselves, it is good to remember that simple changes can do a lot. If you are going to replace an appliance, large or small, purchasing and Energy Star rated one can save 15% or more on its energy consumption. Low flow toilets and shower heads mean that you will never even notice the difference in most cases but save a lot on water bills and water consumption. "On Demand" tankless hot water heaters mean instant hot water and lower bills because you are not heating a 30 - 50 gallon tank all the time. Solar hot water tanks can either heat all your water or preheat it so that your conventional hot water heater works less.
Wood laminates, plantation grown wood , rubberwood and alternatives like bamboo or tile are good flooring choices. You could also choose recycled wood or carpet made with fibers from recycled plastic containers.
Using fans and natural ventilation saves on cooling costs and evaporative cooling is less expensive and enercy consuming than refrigerated air (and probably healthier too).