GoGreen.OK.gov is an OK.gov initiative showcasing how Oklahoma eGovernment is helping to reduce the carbon footprintby reducing paper consumption and citizen travel to government facilities.

Welcome to the 22nd "Green" Tips Message. This message is sent to all subscribing users on a weekly basis providing simple tips on becoming more Green! This article is part of Earth911’s “Green Eight” series, where they showcase eight ways to green your life in various areas.This week's message provides simple tips on:

8 Ways to Green a Small Space 

1. Minimize Your Energy Use

One instant green benefit of living in a smaller space is the potential to use less energy than you would in larger accommodations. Using less energy at home not only saves you money, but helps to reduce your overall impact on the environment.

Now that the weather is cooling down, consider resisting the urge to crank up the heat. For every degree below 68 degrees during cold weather, you can save 3 to 5 percent on heating energy, according to MSN. For areas of the country where the weather is still warm, the same article recommends keeping thermostats set at 78 degrees to save energy and money.

2. Add a Household Plant

Adding a plant to your small living or office space offers many benefits to you and your environment. In addition to adding a welcoming touch to your living or working space, live plants can help clean the air, reduce noise pollution and even have proven health benefits, according to a NASA study.

Plus, for those who have a hard time staying indoors for long periods of time, decorating with a few house plants is an ideal way to bring nature to you. Just make sure to do your research first – some plants are not suitable for certain pets or can cause allergies.

 Click Here to View Green Tips #3-8