Knowing where and how to start being green isn't always easy, especially if you aren't familiar with the ways of the eco-world. Fortunately many communities are beginning to recognize the need to assist others in learning how to live in an environmentally-friendly way.

Organizations like the Clean Calgary Association aim to provide resources and education for both individuals and businesse in order to help the city become "world leaders in urban environmental sustainability." Businesses can access information, education, resources and tools that help reform a company's waste diversion tactics and guide a business in reducing its environmental footprint. One-on-one consultations that include a site tour and interview are available, as well as "Lunch and Learn" presentations.

Healthy Homes Calgary is the newest residential service offered by the association, and provides locals with the opportunity for a free home visit to those interested in improving the eco-friendliness of their residence in areas including indoor air quality, energy, water efficiency and waste reduction.

The association also offers several workshops and courses for individuals, schools and businesses on subjects such as composting, VermiComposting, Waste at Work, Getting There Green (transportation) and Green Cleaning. The workshops cost $8 per person. Longer courses include EcoLogic 101, Master Composter and Introduction to Permaculture. The courses are anywhere from six to 25 hours and cost $350, or $150 with a 25-hour volunteer commitment.

Beyond offering education, the association has also created campaigns encouraging people to recycle their cell phones (a free program they offer), say no to junk mail and turn off their engines through the Idle Free Campaign), which launched this past March and individuals, families or groups can participate in.

Those in search of green products such as baby supplies, hemp, books and household items can also pay a visit to the association's EcoStore, located in downtown Calgary and open Tuesday through Saturday every week except the week of Christmas.

Individuals and businesses can become members of the Clean Calgary Association for a small fee and receive member benefits including a 10% discount at the EcoStore, a discount on the workships, as well as a newsletter and access to library materials. The association also relies on the support of volunteers who perform tasks from representing the association at public events, providing administrative assistance, helping out at the store and facilitating composting presentations, among several opportunities.

Visit the official Clean Calgary Association after the jump to learn how you can become involved or to get an idea of how you can start your own similar community group if your area does not already have one!

» Clean Calgary Association