Energy Smarts

Erase Your Footprint

If you can't afford to convert every square foot of your home into a paradigm of energy efficiency—and let's face it, very few of us can—then try the next best thing: Purchase carbon offsets. For every pound of carbon dioxide your home releases, you can fund an environment-friendly endeavor that reduces the amount of greenhouse gases released into the air.

Offsets are sold by a number of nonprofit and for-profit organizations that invest the money in eco-friendly projects such as reforestation, renewable energy, and power-plant carbon credits. You can calculate an estimate of your home's carbon footprint and purchase offsets at Carbonfund.org and Terrapass.com.

More ways you can live a green lifestyle.