Electric cars have come a long way, but there's a reason why hybrids are still topping the charts and pushing EVs out of sight. Hybrids make sense financially and in terms of range — and they're obviously eco-friendly. On the other hand, electric cars are pricey, time consuming and still in the new stages of development. Either way, you're driving green technology, and that's better than nothing. But realistically speaking, here are four reasons why hybrids win:

Electrics Don't Go the Distance

No matter what anyone says, when it comes to range, EVs just aren't there yet. Out of the newest generation of compact and mid-size electrics, the 2013 CODA gets about 88 miles per charge while the Ford Focus Electric averages 76 miles per charge and the Nissan Leaf came in at 73 miles per charge, according to Fueleconomy.gov. That can cover the average American's commute, but what about road trips? With seven to 12 hours of charging time, electric cars aren't reasonable for anything but a short commute.

Until electric cars can meet society's needs, they won't compare with hybrids. The 2013 Toyota Prius c can run 428 miles on a tank, and uses regenerative brakes to recharge its batteries. If you're looking for a used Toyota in Arlington, the 2010 Toyota Prius gets 536 miles per tank, according to Fueleconomy.gov. Yeah, that's more than the newest all-electric types, and despite driving an older model, you'd still be driving clean, green technology.

It's a Crime How Much They Cost

Let's talk price. First, let me show you something.

MSRP for EVs

• 2013 CODA — $37,250
• 2013 Ford Focus Electric — $39,200
• 2012 Nissan LEAF — $35,200
• 2013 Chevy Volt — $39,145

MSRP for Hybrids

• 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid — $25,200
• 2013 Prius Two — $24,200
• 2012 Honda CR-Z Hybrid $19,695
• 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid — $25,850

Do I need to say anything more? Price wise, even with the potential government tax credits (if qualified, totaling to about $7,500), EVs still can't keep up with hybrids.

Charge Time — Too Much Time

Electric technology is improving that I can't deny, but how much? Over the years, the time it takes to charge an electric car has diminished from 10-12 hours to four to seven hours — a big improvement but still — HOURS. Even if the technology is reducing our dependence on foreign oil supply and can help reduce greenhouse emissions, who has hours to fuel up? Until you can get a full charge while grabbing your soda and a pack of gum in the convenience store, electrics won't match up with hybrids.

Way Too Many Other Options

In general terms, the green movement groups across America are what lead people to electric and hybrid vehicle options. But there are also those who want a form of transportation that doesn't cost them hundreds at the gas pump. In looking for a way to save the planet, reduce their personal carbon footprint and save money at the pump, people are interested in seeing what else is available. In comes flashy technology about all-electrics. But here's the catch. Technology is improving across the board. Conventional cars are also seeing advancement, and in order for electric technology to keep up they're going to have to speed up.

The thought of a decomposing pile of waste sitting in or near the home might be a little off putting to some people, but it's not nearly as much of a hassle as it may seem at a glance. In fact, compost not only provides health and vitality to your garden and lawn, it plays a major part in cutting down greenhouse gas emissions, landfill overflow and even weed control.

You've probably seen scary statistics, like the World Wildlife Fund's study that claims we will need two earths to sustain ourselves by the year 2050, or that the earth's fish supply will run out by the year 2048, but that doesn't have to be the case. As buzzy and ubiquitous as the green movement has become nowadays, there's a reason it's everywhere. According to the EPA, the amount of landfills that exist in the U.S. has been steadily shrinking for the past 20 years or so. This may sound like a good thing, but in actuality we produce more garbage, so the land fills are bursting at the seams with greenhouse gas and sometimes toxic substances. Some landfills, like Cecil County Central Landfill in Elkton, Maryland even require relocation and remediation by third-party companies like Sevenson Environmental. The growing garbage problem is starting to get stinky. Luckily, there's a lot you can do at home to combat it (and look like an earth-saving hero to all your friends), starting with the simple act of composting.

Why It's Helpful

The EPA reports that approximately 17 percent of all methane gas emitted in the U.S. comes from landfills, which lump dangerous refuse with helpful organic material. By starting a compost bin or area for your family, you are lessening toxic contributions to already overcrowded landfills. The EPA estimates that if every household composted their yard trimmings and food scraps, it could reduce the municipal waste stream by up to 25 percent. Furthermore, The United States Composting Council's findings show that for every one ton of composted waste, .25 metric tons of greenhouse gases are prevented. A Sierra Club study concluded that a family of four could easily create 500 pounds of compost in a year. 

A Quick How-To

Did you know that you can compost egg shells, cardboard pizza boxes, nail clippings, old wool or cotton clothing, bills and even condoms? And the list goes on. All you need is a bin, bucket, soil and motivation to make the world a better place for your children. The recipe for compost is simple: use approximately a 1/1 ratio for soil and scraps, alternating approximately four-inch layers. A properly tended compost bin doesn't smell or breed harmful bacteria, as long as you don't add any fats, meats, dairy or oils. Once you begin your foray into greener pastures, be sure to aerate the soil with holes or earthworms. This also quickens the decomposition process. It is also important to stir your compost intermittently so it doesn't become impacted. From there you can use it to make the most beautiful, nutrient-rich garden that your home could ever need— and the earth will thank you.

The World Wildlife Fund projects that by the year 2050 we will need two more Earths to sustain our voracious appetites for consumption. As worldwide resources continue to dwindle, we need to get our act together quickly. Although it's not simple to change your life overnight, baby steps can reduce your carbon footprint.

A more natural lifestyle is integral in doing your part for the Earth . The simple truth is we need to consume less. It seems like no matter how many images, statistics and studies are thrust in front of us, most people still go on trying to keep up with the Joneses, buying things they don't really need. Take a moment to do some research and make some savvy, even fun, upgrades to your daily life to improve the Earth and your health.

Grow Food in Small Places

If you live in an apartment or condo with no space for a garden, stop daydreaming about delightful strolls through lush rows of greens. Bring the green indoors and grow windowsill herb gardens or other small, potted crops. More and more companies are creating DIY home gardens for the busy professional. If you love fresh, organic food they're worth looking into.

• For only 25$, you can grow up to two pounds of fresh pearl oyster mushrooms in only ten days, and that's just the tip of the grow-your-own iceburg.

• The Topsy Turvy system (yep, the same one from TV) allows you to grow your own strawberries or tomatoes vertically, making space limitations a non-issue. A simple Goggle search will help you find them for less than ten dollars.

• Chia Her Garden, anyone?

Stock Your Closets With Knowledge

Most of us like to have some semblance of style, even if it is “just rolled out of bed” chic. Green fashionistas however, are aware of the environmental impact that even  hand-me-downs can have. The environmental risks of fashion manufacturing stretch far beyond the horrible conditions of sweat shops, points out Eco-fashionista Lynda Grose of Faircompanies.com. In fact, the dyes, washes and scraps from clothing manufacture can have horrible effects on the workers producing them and the environment surrounding them. And most people don't realize that most of our old clothing ends up in landfills. Environmentalist Stephen Dent recommends buying recycled and or organic clothing. Cottons and wools grown without pesticides, hormones or antibiotics are ideal.

• The Andira Rain Tee collection is not only sustainable and all natural. Each shirt they sell goes towards planting trees in the rain forest.

• Green Label Organic sells their popular T-Shirts at stores like REI, but they can also be purchased online. Not only is all their apparel made in the U.S., it's made with low-impact garment dye in a sustainable fashion.

• Ecogear.com offers a number of products, from brief cases to mountain climbing gear, that are as nice to look at as they are on the environment. The company was inspired by a vacation the owner took. He wanted to ensure his children had a beautiful world in which to grow up, and began designing eco-friendly products around a sustainable concept.

The eco-friendly car movement in the automobile industry has seen a shift toward the use of more environmentally sustainable fuels, such as electricity and gas. Cars such as Toyota’s Hybrid, that has a mixed fuel engine using both petrol and electricity, have been a huge success, with people wanting to make environmentally smarter decisions when it comes to buying a new car.

Model S, Prius and Spyder

Eco-friendly cars have gained another win with American car manufacturers; Tesla’s Model S is being awarded Motor Trend’s 2013 Car of the Year. The Model S is the first car with no internal combustion engine to win this coveted award, marking a significant moment in the push for environmentally friendly cars. The Model S is ready to reserve in Australia and deliveries will begin mid 2013 with a $6000 reserve payment.

For those looking for something sporty, in 2014 BMW will be releasing its i8 Spyder with a dual electric/petrol engine with prices expected to be high.

Despite the green progress, there are still significant issues reducing the number of consumers wanting to move into the eco car market. Toyota recently recalled over 2.7 million of its second generation Priuses due to issues with the water pump and steering. This follows previous Toyota recalls due to other manufacturing defaults. Toyota share prices plummeted because of the recall.

Eco-Friendly Choices

For drivers who are currently unable to invest in the hybrid or electric car market, it is still possible to lower the impact you and your car are having on the environment by following some simple guidelines:

• Service your car. Keep your car in good condition – check the tyre pressure, replace spark plugs and clean the oil and water. Not only will this help your car last longer, a vehicle in good condition is often cheaper to get comprehensive car insurance.
• Drive sensibly. Excessive acceleration and hard braking burn fuel at a much higher rate than driving at a consistent speed. Sticking to the speed limit and going easy on the accelerator and brake will lower your carbon emissions and help you save money on petrol.
• Stay light. Avoid carrying excess weight in your car as the heavier your car the more fuel is needed to get it moving.
• Open your windows. Avoid using your air conditioner as this requires additional engine power and will use up more petrol.
• Plan your trip. Avoiding taking lots of short journeys, as it is at the start of your trip that your car uses the most petrol. Plan where you are going and avoid areas where you are likely to get stuck in traffic jams.

By following these simple guidelines you will significantly reduce the environmental impact that you are having on our planet and save money at the same time.