You don't need us to tell you that our dependence on crude needs to change—and this couldn't be truer than it is now. Conservative estimates say the leak in the Gulf is spewing 200,000 gallons a day; others say it's closer to 3 million. Either way the environmental and economic repercussions are going to be disastrous.

We all need to do some adjusting—and we can do much more than just avoid the gas station. There are 42 gallons in one barrel of oil. About 20 gallons of a barrel go to gasoline, and the rest goes into making approximately 6,000 other items we regularly use, consume, and toss. So, what can we do in our own lives to reduce petroleum reliance? We can bring awareness to the products we purchase. Here are few ways you can start to reduce your daily personal intake.