Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Renew. This was once the eco-warrior's credo, recommended to consumers in Europe. Today, however, environmentalists say that more critical than the 4 Rs is a simple word that ought to become a slogan: deconsume. Deconsume sounds like Mahatma Gandhi's mantra: Live simply, so that others may simply live. Easier said than done in urban settings, where economies are built on consumption and demand. So, how about green consumerism? Every time you spend a rupee, you vote for or against the environment. Here are some ways to be eco-conscious in your everyday life: Deconsume: It means you pare down. Eco-consciously examine your needs and indulgences, see what can be deleted from your shopping list. For example, if your modest-sized apartment complex decides to "deconsume" aerated drinks for a week, it still saves that much groundwater (manufacturing), plastic (packaging) and fuel (transport). *** Small choices go a long way: For instance, you can choose bucket baths over showers every day; instal a low-flush toilet, stop brushing your teeth with the tap running, use household waste-water to water plants, use washing machines only with a full load. Switch to CFL bulbs, make sure your appliances are energy-efficient, switch off unnecessary lights, and try to cut down use of the airconditioner. Stop using plastic bags, and go shopping with a reusable cloth bag. Segregate your garbage, with recyclable stuff separated. You can control the amount of environmentally harmful substances used around the house