Bike, use public transit, carpool to work,
drive slower, keep your tires inflated
One-third of all traffic is commuters. Use
alternative transportation when possible. If you must drive, go slower with
proper tire inflation. It saves both fuel and tires, and lowers emissions. It
also saves lives.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Compost
Reusing packaging material saves more energy
than recycling. By avoiding extra packaging, you save both energy and landfill
space. Yard and kitchen waste (leaves/grass/vegetable scraps) are 30% of trash.
Reduce this amount by composting. Also be sure to re-use plastic bags, or
better yet... refuse plastic bags when you really don't need them.
Conserve water
Don't let faucets run. Never water your lawn
at midday. Place a brick in old toilets. Take low flow short showers. Run the
dishwasher only when it is full. Let grass grow longer. Plant native or
drought-tolerant garden plants.
Quit smoking
Second-hand smoke is a major indoor air
pollutant and health hazard. When you quit, both you and your family will lead
longer and healthier lives.
Don't use pesticides/herbicides on your lawn
Along with nitrogen fertilizer runoff, these
are major water pollutants.
Keep your cat indoors
Domestic cats kill over one billion small
birds and animals every year (1 outdoor cat averages 40 kills per year). They
upset natural predator/prey balances and eliminate ground nesting birds.
Eat less meat/eat more local and organic foods
Feedlots are a major source of organic
pollution. Tropical forests are cut to raise beef.
Lower your thermostat in the winter. Raise it
in the summer
Wearing a sweater in the winter and short
sleeves in the summer saves energy and reduces pollution.
Dispose of old paint, chemicals, and oil
properly
Don't put batteries, antifreeze, paint, motor
oil, or chemicals in the trash. Use proper toxics disposal sites. Never buy
more than you need.
Consider the environmental costs of major
decisions and purchases
When relocating or changing jobs try to live
close to work. Compare efficiency when purchasing new cars or appliances. Buy
fewer things. Choose products with lower energy inputs.
Volunteer/Lobby for the Environment
Work locally and globally to save natural
places, reduce urban sprawl, lower pollution and prevent the destruction of
wilderness areas for timber and oil.
Plant a tree with a child
Take a walk in the woods, or plant trees which
store CO2. Teaching our children to love and care for the planet is the most
important thing we can do to insure the future of humankind.
Wash dishes by hand in a basin, and then use
the dish water for outdoor gardens.
