Among the useful nuggets are fixing water leaks, using water-efficient toilets, and properly irrigating plants. If these practices were adopted, each household could "save 30,000 gallons per year – enough to supply a year of drinking water for 150 of their neighbors". Even though water is cheap, you could still save more than $110 per year.

For saving energy, two of the best recommendations are to use geothermal heat pumps (30 percent more efficient) and programmable thermostats. You can also save by opening the windows on cooler evenings instead of always running the air conditioning.

Also, buying Energy Star appliances that pay for themselves (usually within two years) is highly recommended.

Of course the downside to buying new green products is how to dispose of the old products such as toilets or heaters with the least environmental impact.

Why haven't I seen any ads from Lowe's or Home Depot to help highlight these pragmatic products and actions? There should be a public/partnership between these companies and the EPA to build awareness through TV, radio, and in-store promotions.