Freelance writer and author Jodi Helmer knows that choosing a green lifestyle can seem overwhelming for many people. Deciding where to start and even how to start can make a person see green rather than live green.

But Ms. Helmer says going green isn’t that difficult, and she hopes to illustrate that in her new book, “The Green Year.” The book, Ms. Helmer’s first, was released on Dec. 2 and takes a calendar-like approach to becoming more eco-friendly. Each day features easy and inexpensive tips. For example, turn to Aug. 18 and you’ll read how adding tennis balls to your dryer helps speed up drying time.

The News-Press recently chatted with Ms. Helmer, who lives in Charlotte, N.C.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

Ms. Helmer grew up in Toronto, and lived in Portland, Ore., from 2000 to 2007. It was while living in Portland that she embraced a green lifestyle. That city, she said, is progressive when it comes to recycling and eco-friendly living. Recycling became second nature to her. However, that changed when she moved to Charlotte in 2007. Ms. Helmer said she had to search for places to recycle and was even told to just throw her recyclables in the trash. Already writing about environmental issues, it was that attitude that inspired her to write her first book. All the information in the book has been backed up with research, she said. They’re not just “Jodi says do this” tips.

“The Green Year” features daily tips, calendar style. Is there a reason for that?

Ms. Helmer said the calendar-type format was her publisher’s idea. Although the book is a daily guide, it doesn’t designate a certain year, so it can be used year after year. She said the tips are arranged in a practical order. Open the book to April and you’ll find tips for greening the garden. Flip to December and there are energy-efficient and green holiday ideas.

What are some of tips that readers will find in the book?

Choose powdered detergent rather than liquid when doing the laundry. Since the liquid detergent is mostly water, by switching to powder, you’ll be helping conserve water. Place recycling boxes, which can just be small cardboard boxes, in several rooms of your home. That way, you’ll make recycling an easy habit. Don’t throw away clothing you no longer want (it will just take up more room in the landfill). Donate clothing to organizations such as Goodwill. Plant mint in your garden to as a natural solution to keep mice at bay. Leave grass clippings on the yard after you mow. It will save you time and feed your yard.

Do you have a favorite tip?

Make sure your gas cap is on tight. Ms. Helmer said million of gallons of gas evaporate into the atmosphere because of broken, loose or missing gas caps. Turn you gas cap until it clicks three times to make sure it’s on tight.

Lifestyles reporter Cathy Woolridge can be reached at cathyw@npgco.com

Book on it

“The Green Year” by Jodi Helmer is available at bookstores and on the Web including at amazon.com or www.the-green-year.com.