Laundry nirvana at last. For months, I ogled front-loading washing machines and gushed about their energy-saving advantages to my reticent husband. Now I finally have one — all chrome and lights and silver buttons. Every green cell in my body quivered with anticipation: less energy! less water! cleaner clothes! A faster spin cycle!

To top it off, this appliance looks so cool...

According to the Princeton Review, 63 percent of college applicants look for a commitment to the environment when they search for a school. For prospective undergraduates, Indiana has plenty of colleges to choose from that are dedicated to reducing their carbon footprints. Simple steps such as switching light bulbs, taking shorter showers and recycling positively affect the economy and the environment.