Adopt a savvy consumer's attitude. Local sustainability experts, including those behind Oregon Go Green, advocate thinking before buying. In other words, don't buy what you don't need, search for earth-friendly products and avoid creating trash when shopping. For example, when ordering ice cream to go, ask for a cone instead of a paper or Styrofoam dish.
Buy used items at thrift stores and other shops specializing in "resale" inventory. The state boasts a number of reclaimed building material outlets, including Bring in Eugene, The Rebuilding Center in Portland and CARTM in Manzanita, as well as stores offering used household goods, including Goodwill Industries International stores and consignments shops.
Recycle your old TVs and computers. Although old computers and TV sets end up in the landfill in many states, in 2007, the state legislature passed the Oregon E-waste Law, which requires manufacturers of TVs and computers to provide or pay for recycling services. The move eliminated a great deal of electronic waste, much of which pollutes groundwater, from the waste stream. Anyone can bring seven or fewer computers (desktops and laptops), monitors and TVs at a time to participating Oregon E-Cycles collection sites for free recycling.
Create a less toxic living environment. Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality offers information about reducing toxicity in the home. The online guide tells you what might be toxic in your home, and how to reduce toxic substances in your dwelling, and offers suggestions for alternatives to toxic household cleaners and ways to reduce your exposure to toxic products.
Conserve energy. The Oregon DEQ also features information on its website regarding cutting energy costs at home. The site includes information on energy-efficient appliances, saving money while staying warm and switching to solar power with tax credits. The website includes a carbon footprint calculator that gives the consumer a sense of the work they need to do to live a more sustainable lifestyle.