In today's society, the phenomenon that everyone seems to be preaching is the 'green' movement. We hear phrases such as, "Save the planet!" and, "Go green!" But what these people fail to mention is how difficult it actually is to go green. Aside from the fact that it requires a total lifestyle change, the biggest issue is money. Using natural substances typically requires twice the amount of money and time as it does to use conventional materials.

The most recent craze in the construction industry is the topic of building green. Companies are able to use more natural substances than ever before. These buildings are usually nicer and more durable. The drawback most have with this style of construction is the additional money and labor that is required.

It is easy to think more in the present, but rather difficult to visualize the long term effects. While ultimately benefiting the environment, building green also benefits the consumers. This is something that is hard for us to imagine. As humans, we naturally focus on our current needs and wants rather than what may really be best for us in the future.

The construction of green homes, as well as large scale business buildings is becoming a hot commodity. But when discussing this new trend, few seem to ask why these materials are so much more expensive than conventional ones? Is it really worth going green when you are spending more money?

This also can relate to the topic of healthy/organic eating. The reason people have such difficulty with eating healthy is because it is so much easier to buy and prepare the unhealthy food. We all struggle with money, some more than others. But when I am at the grocery store debating on what kind of milk to buy, I will stick with my usual 1 gallon of skim milk for $2.59 when compared to a .5 gallon of organic milk for $4.96.

As previously mentioned, this raises the question of why these substances are so much more expensive when they are supposed to be natural? I understand that these might be harder to acquire given that they may be limited or rare, but in order to effectively promote this lifestyle, it should accommodate everyone.

I also completely understand that something needs to change with us humans and our environment. Not just for our benefit, but for the generations to come. Everything we do today, the way we live, the way we take care of our surroundings, impacts them. Future generations deserve to live peacefully and healthily on this beautiful earth.

So yes, we all must make more of a conscious effort to protect our planet; how much of an effort one chooses is entirely up to you. Of course, this article only briefly covers two topics related to going green. I didn't dare begin to discuss issues such as hybrid cars, energy efficient appliances or just simple everyday products. While the growing debate of 'going green' continues to rise, the best way to approach this is to educate yourself and form your own opinions. These green movements will benefit us in the long run, but what must we sacrifice along the way?