With new bamboo flooring, you're literally starting from the ground up in creating a sustainable home. So what's your next step? Even the smallest change can make a big difference. Start small with these five simple tips for a greener living space.

1. Make sure your bamboo floor shines in the natural sunlight by installing skylights into your ceilings. When you need to turn the lights on, try compact fluorescent bulbs, which use up to 80% less energy than ordinary light bulbs.
2. Ease off the air conditioner and heater in summer and winter and keep yourself comfortable with oscillating fans and good old–fashioned sweaters. Bamboo floors feel nice and cool on bare feet in the summer, too.
3. If you're thinking of remodeling your home, work from the inside out and start by replacing outdated heating and air conditioning systems with newer, more energy–efficient systems. Make sure all windows, doors, attics, and walls are adequately insulated as well.
4. Solar energy isn't just the stuff of science fiction anymore - roof-mounted solar panels can be used to generate electricity and hot water, especially in sunnier locales.
5. Start with yourself! Try simple things like taking your own shopping bags to the grocery store, turning off lights and electronics when you leave the room, and walking short distances instead of driving when you can. After all, sustainable living might start in the home, but it doesn't have to end there.