The best way to encourage teens and all kids in general to be green is by inspiring them. They learn better through osmosis than lectures--SHOW THEM DON'T TELL THEM!!

Here are some tips for parents:

1. Start Early:Take young children on eco-outings, go to a farmers market or some cities have actual working farms. Let them see how food is grown and how fun it is to shop for local foods.

2. Teach by Example:If you are wasteful your children will be wasteful. Model sustainable behaviors (composting, recycling) so they become second nature to the whole family.

3. Step Up: Find a program for your teen, some high schools have an eco club with activities like picking up litter or recycling drives. Volunteering is addictive and you can meet the coolest people and learn the newest things.

4. Dream Big: Show how everyone, your teen can make a difference. Find articles or documentaries to share and discuss them over dinner. Share examples you have heard of people taking a big step with sustainable living. For example, Brad Pitt building sustainable houses in New Orleans.