• Switching to a vegetarian diet is a powerful way to help protect our environment and help ensure everyone has enough to eat.
• The United Nations recently releasedÌý, which concludes that the livestock sector (primarily cows, chickens, and pigs) emerges as one of the top two or three most significant contributors to our most serious environmental problems, at every scale from local to global.ÌýIt is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gases - responsible for 18% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions as measured in CO2 equivalents.ÌýBy comparison, all transportation emits 13.5% of the CO2. It produces 65% of human-related nitrous oxide (which has 296 times the climate change potential of CO2) and 37% of all human-induced methane (which is 23 times as warming as CO2). It also generates 64% of the ammonia, which contributes to acid rain and acidification of ecosystems. In addition, the enormous amounts of grain required to feed livestock reduces the amount of food available for theÌý.
• Buying organic, locally grown food also reduces climate change emissions and helps protect the environment.

LocalÌý

Buy food (and drink - ideally tap - water) from local companies whenever possible. Each pound of local food you purchase prevents a quarter pound of climate change (C02) emissions. Support your area's Farmer's Market. If possible, grow your own fruits and vegetables using organic gardening practices. You can find local farmer's markets, community supported agriculture, restaurants that cook with regional cuisine, and food cooperatives throughÌýLocal Harvest.

Vegetarian/Vegan Diet

Consider becoming a lacto-ovo vegetarian (no meat but some eggs and dairy products) or vegan (no animal products). Informational sites:

Healthy School Lunches

Support efforts toÌýincrease healthy food choicesÌýin school lunches (US)

Ìý

Non-GMO

There areÌýmany organizationsÌýthat are working to protect our food supply from genetically engineered produce. Please get involved in any way you can. Whenever possible, buy products containing non-GMO soy, cotton, and corn. Ask your local supermarket to carry non-GMO products and ask your friends to also make this request - have faith that your requests will get back to the growers and store headquarters. This trend will only turn around when customer demand non-GMO products. Your pocketbook is your most effective voice.

Unprocessed Food

Eat unprocessed/unpackaged food whenever possible.

Ìý

Smart Seafood

If you purchase seafood, consultÌýa seafood choices chartÌýto select environmentally smart seafood.

"Dolphin Safe" Tuna

Only purchase tuna labeled "dolphin safe".

Ìý

Shade-Grown Coffee

BuyÌýshade-grown coffeeÌýto protect desperately needed migratory bird habitats. Many "fair trade certified" coffees are shade-grown. In the U.S., locate a supplier near you on the TransFairÌýRetail Outlets listing.

Free-Range

If you eat meat, buy "free-range" raised animals. According to the EPA, "there are approximately 450,000 AFOs (Animal feeding operations - livestock-raising operations, such as hog, cattle and poultry farms, that confine and concentrate animal populations) in the United States. About 6,600 of these operations fall into the largest category and are referred to as Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs)."

the science of applying ecological concepts and principles to the design, development, and management of sustainable agricultural systems.

a concentration in one place of a few or up to several hundreds of land parcels that are assigned to individual families. In allotment gardens, the parcels are cultivated individually.

comprises an ecological and sustainable farming system, that includes many of the ideas of organic farming. It is based on the anthroposophical teachings of Rudolf Steiner.

small plots of land allocated to groups of people by some organization that holds title or lease to the land, sometimes for rent, sometimes simply as a grant of land.

a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation with the growers and consumers providing mutual support and sharing the risks and benefits of food production.

relies on developing biological diversity in the field to disrupt habitat for pest organisms, and the purposeful maintenance and replenishment of soil fertility. Organic farmers are not allowed to use synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

used in gardening and agriculture as a soil amendment.

an organized social movement which promotes equitable standards for international labor, environmentalism, and social policy in areas related to the production of labeled and unlabelled goods, which may range from handcrafts to agricultural commodities.

Farmer's Markets

are markets, usually held out-of-doors, in public spaces, where farmers can sell their produce to the public. Products at farmers' markets are renowned for being locally-grown and very fresh.

a concept advocated by a number of farmers', peasants', and fishermen's organizations, namely the claimed "right of peoples to define their own food and agriculture," in contrast to having food largely subject to international market forces.

a permaculture food production and land management system based on replicating woodland edge ecosystems, substituting trees (such as fruit or nut trees), bushes, shrubs, herbs and vegetables which have yields directly useful to humankind.

meat produced in vitro, in a cell culture, rather than from an animal. Has the potential to be safer, more nutritious, less polluting, less resource intensive, and more humane than conventional meat.

a principle of sustainability relying on consumption of food products that are locally grown.

eight goals that all 191 United Nations member states have agreed to try to achieve by the year 2015. Goal number 1 is to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger.

one of the pioneers of no-till grain cultivation. His system is referred to as "natural farming", Fukuoka Farming, or the Fukuoka Method.

Ìý

Ìý

also known as conservation tillage or zero tillage is a way of growing crops from year to year without disturbing the soil through tillage.

theÌýLand InstituteÌýis working to create food crops that are perenials instead of annuals that require fewer chemicals and would eliminate tilling that erodes our soil.

a design system which aims to create sustainable habitats by following nature's patterns.

the practice of saving seeds from open-pollinated vegetables and flowers for use from year to year. This is the traditional way farms and gardens were maintained. TheÌýNative Seed NetworkÌýis a good resource.

Ìý

integrates three main goals: environmental stewardship, farm profitability, and prosperous farming communities.

the practice of agriculture within or surrounding the boundaries of cities.

aims to produce organically grown foods and other crops whilst minimizing (preferably eradicating) the exploitation of, or causing of harm to, any living creature.

vertical, hydroponic, modular, low-energy, high-yield edible window gardens built using low-impact or recycled local materials.

Gardening Tips

Native Garden:Ìý

Learn about creating a Native Garden fromÌýeNature. Get to know the specific ecosystem your home is located in (e.g., Oak Woodland, Grasslands) and select plants native to this ecosystem.

Ìý

Climate-Friendly Gardens:Ìý

Learn about becoming a climate-friendly gardenerÌýfrom UCS.

Rain Garden:Ìý

Create aÌýrain gardenÌýon your property to reduce runoff into storm drains.

Ìý

Window Farms:Ìý

Innovative way toÌýgrow food from recycled containersÌýhanging in windows.

Ìý

Composting:Ìý

Composting provides important nutrients for your organic garden. Learn more atÌýWikipedia's Compost page.

Free Dirt Exchange:Ìý

Find free soil in your area for your landscaping project or garden throughÌýTons of Dirt.

Ìý

Mulching:Ìý

Mulching mowers are available which will convert cut grass into a natural fertilizer.

Ìý

Carbon Debt:Ìý

Work off your carbon dioxide "debt" byÌýplanting trees!ÌýFind out how much you need to work off with theÌýClimate Change Calculator.

Pesticides:Ìý

Learn about current toxicity and regulatory information for pesticides in the PAN Pesticide Database.

How to Build a Rain BarrelÌý

Rain barrels recycle rain water for reuse. You can purchase a rain barrel or make your own homemade water collection container.

Advantages of a Compost PileÌý

Composting is so easy and reduces your household waste, plus it produces a nutrient-rich fertilizer for use in gardening.

Ìý

Square Foot Gardening

Developed by a civil engineer, is the practice of planning small gardens intensively planted in raised beds/containers.The fundamental message of SFG is that you may grow more food in less space and with less resources than with traditional row gardening.

The practice combines concepts from other organic gardening methods, including a strong focus on compost, closely planted raised beds and biointensive attention to a small, clearly defined area. Proponents claim that the method is particularly well-suited for areas with poor soil, beginning gardeners or as adaptive recreation for those with disabilities.

Benefits of Square Foot Gardening

Much less work.

Conventional gardening requires heavy tools to loosen the soil, whereas in this method, the soil is never compacted and it remains loose and loamy. Weeding takes only seconds to minutes, due to the light soil, raised beds, and easily accessed plants. Harvests per foot of garden are increased due to the rich soil mixture, well-spaced plants, and lack of weeds produced when following Mel Bartholomew's method.

Ìý

Water Savings.Ìý

The soil mixture that is advised has water-holding capacities, so that the garden needs water less frequently, and in much smaller quantities than when using other gardening methods. Water is also spared by hand-watering directly at the plant roots, so that there is very little waste and tender young plants and seedlings are preserved.

Very little weeding.Ìý

One benefit of this close planting is that the vegetables form a livingÌýmulch, and shade out manyÌýweedÌýseeds before they have a chance to germinate.

Ìý

Pesticide / Herbicide Free.Ìý

Natural insect repellent methods likeÌýcompanion plantingÌý(i.e. planting marigolds or other naturally pest-repelling plants) become very efficient in a close space and thus, pesticides are not necessary. The large variety of crops in a small space also prevents plant diseases from spreading easily.

Accessibility.Ìý

A plywood bottom can be attached to the bottom of a box, which can then be placed on a tabletop or raised platform for those who wish to garden without bending or squatting, or to make gardening easy for wheelchair, cane or walker users.

Create a Backyard Wildlife Habitat

As people take over more and more of the land, we need to provide food, water, and shelter to the animals that are now relying on us for their survival.

Backyard Wildlife Habitat:Ìý

A backyard wildlife habitat or "naturescape" can be created in your own backyard. A miniature version can even be created on your patio or deck. Basic elements include fresh water (i.e., a bird bath and, if in a yard, water low to the ground); plants and feeders that provide nourishment for birds, insects, etc.; and rocks, trees, bushes and/or bird houses for shelter and nesting. Purchase plants that are native to your area. The National Wildlife Federation has an excellent program:ÌýThe Backyard Wildlife Habitat ProgramÌýwhich provides some helpful, detailed examples.

Attracting Animals:

Learn how to attract:

Resources:

How to NaturescapeÌýprovides inspiration and information on switching to native plants.

Saving Energy & Money at Home

Do you know how much water you use in a typical day? Discover ways to conserve water with some very easy changes.

Ìý

Ìý

Rain barrels recycle rain water for reuse. You can purchase a rain barrel or make your own homemade water collection container.

Ìý

Composting is so easy and reduces your household waste, plus it produces a nutrient-rich fertilizer for use in gardening.

Ìý

Ìý

You’ll find a number of valuable green living tips for low-impact living.

Ìý

Review this article to find a number of great green living publications.

What can you do to make your kitchen a more environmentally friendly room? You’ll be amazed!

Ìý

Ìý

Out with toxicÌýÌýand in with healthier, eco-friendly alternatives. ItÌýisÌýpossible to clean your home without harsh chemicals.

Ìý

This directory provides an A-Z styled index of information and resources for living sustainable, low-impact lives

Unplug unused electronics

If an electronic device is plugged into an outlet it can still use electricity whether or not it is turned on. Unplug battery chargers and power adapters when they finish charging, or are not in use. Consider using a power strip that can be turned off when you're done using (or at bedtime) your computers, printers, wireless routers, and other electronics. Source: EPA

Keep your tires properly inflated, avoid excessive idling, remove any unnecessary objects from your car, drive sensibly, and observe the speed limit. For more ideas visit fueleconomy.gov

Look for Energy-Star approved electronics

Energy Star products are approved by the government to meet certain energy efficiency guidelines. In particular, many approved devices use less energy when turned off, but still plugged in. Go to the Energy Star website to find out more.

Manage your computer's power use

Program inactive monitors and computers to go into a low-power sleep mode and turn off peripheral devices when they are not being used (speakers, scanners, printers, etc.). Source: ENERGYSTAR.gov

Use your air-conditioning less

Keep window coverings closed during the day, set the thermostat to 72 degrees in the summer, raise the thermostat when you leave your home, clean or replace filters once a month or as needed, replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, and for long term savings, consider purchasing programmable thermostats, ceiling fans, and Energy Star approved products. Source: DOE

Today’s digital televisions are bigger and better—and, with almost a hundred channels, DVDs and video games, they’re also on more hours a day. If you’re like most people, your television is an increasingly large part of your electricity bill. Some of the worst power-hungry big-screen TVs use as much energy each year as a new refrigerator. But those electricity-guzzling TVs don't offer better performance than more efficient models.

Heat & Cool Efficiently

As much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So making smart decisions about your home's heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills — and your comfort. Take these steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

Change your air filter regularly

Check your filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every 3 months. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool — wasting energy. A clean filter will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system — leading to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.

Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly

Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort.

Install a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.

Seal your heating and cooling ducts

Ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent — and sometimes much more.

Focus first on sealing ducts that run through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement, or garage. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap them in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. Next, look to seal any other ducts that you can access in the heated or cooled part of the house.

Consider installing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment

If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable, have it evaluated by a professional HVAC contractor. If it is not performing efficiently or needs upgrading, consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR. Depending on where you live, replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with ENERGY STAR qualified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by nearly $200. But before you invest in a new HVAC system, make sure that you have addressed the big air leaks in your house and the duct system. Sometimes, these are the real sources of problems rather than your HVAC equipment.

Proper Sizing of HVAC Equipment

Installing the right size equipment for the home is essential to getting the best performance and comfort. Many homeowners believe that bigger is better when buying new heating and cooling equipment. But in reality, a system that’s too large will not keep your home comfortable because of frequent ‘on/off’ cycling. Incorrect sizing can also put stress on system components and shorten the equipment’s life. To ensure proper sizing your contractor should provide a copy of the home's heat gain/loss calculations for your records.

Sealing Ducts

To ensure that ducts are properly sealed your contractor should test the leakage rate. If the ducts are very leaky (i.e. more than 20% of the air moving through the system is leaking into spaces you do not want heated or cooled) your contractor should use duct sealant (mastic), a metal-backed (foil) tape or an aerosol sealant to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After the ducts are sealed ask your contractor to wrap them in insulation.

Proper Refrigerant Charge (Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps Only)

A properly charged system will operate more efficiently and help prolong the life of the heating and cooling system. To ensure the system has the correct amount of refrigerant a contractor must test and confirm that the system is properly charged. If the system is not properly charged the contractor should make the appropriate adjustment by adding or removing refrigerant.

Optimizing Air Flow

If air flow in your heating and cooling system is too high or too low, you may confront problems and higher utility bills. A contractor should test air flow and make any needed adjustments for optimal performance.

Online Newspaper and Magazine Sources

Consider switching to online news. If you enjoy reading newspapers and/or magazines offline better, consider reading them at a local library. If they don’t carry a newspaper or magazine you like, find out if you can buy a subscription for the library (this is a great way to introduce sustainable/environmental magazines to people in your community).

A comprehensive website with information about recycling programs organized by zip code.Ìý

Ìý

Online bulletin boards, organized by city, where you can give away your old stuff to keep it out of a landfill.Ìý

Ìý

Lots of information about what and how to recycle in New York City from the Department of Sanitation.Ìý

A world wide trading site for information related to recyclable materials

Reduce

The critical first step of waste prevention has been overshadowed by a focus on recycling. Please help to promote a greater awareness of the importance of the "Reduce" part of the Reduce-Reuse-Recycle mantra. For a great overview of how raw materials and products move around the world, see the videoÌý.

Simplify:

Simplify your life as much as possible. Only keep belongings that you use/enjoy on a regular basis. By making the effort to reduce what you own, you will naturally purchase less/create less waste in the future. For information on voluntary simplicity, check outÌýVoluntary Simplicity Websites. Learn more through books on voluntary simplicity.ÌýThe CompactÌýblog (and Yahoo group accessed from blog) supports individuals committed to not buying products for a year.

Ìý

Reduce Purchases:Ìý

In general, think before you buy any product - do you really need it? How did the production of this product impact the environment and what further impacts will there be with the disposal of the product (and associated packaging materials)? When you are thinking about buying something, try the 30-Day Rule—wait 30 days after the first time you decide you want a product to really make your decision. This will eliminate impulse buying.

Tree-Free Home:Ìý

As much as possible, create a tree-free home:

• replace paper napkins with cloth napkins
• replace paper towels with a special set of cloth towels/napkins (or cut up old t-shirts for great towels) - store the used ones in a small container in your kitchen and just wash and reuse
• purchase bleach-free, toilet paper that is made from the highest post-consumer waste content you can find (80% minimum)
• if you print documents, print on once-used paper and/or bleach-free, recycled paper with the highest post-consumer waste content available (orÌý/alternative-source paper, if you can afford it)
• create and use note pads from once-used paper
• leave messages for family members/roommates on a reusable message board
• make your own cards/letters from once-used products or handmade paper
• if you will be doing construction on your house, search outÌýÌýto using newly cut wood (no endorsement of any company intended):
  • bamboo—two sites to check out:ÌýÌýandÌý
  • cob—three sites to check out:Ìý,Ìý, and
  • composite decking --Ìý

Bulk Purchases:Ìý

Avoid products that are packaged for single use (i.e., drinks, school lunches, candy, cat and dog food, salad mixings, etc.). Instead, buy in bulk and transfer the products to your own reusable containers. Many health food stores have bulk bins where they sell everything from grains to cereal to cleaning products.

Ìý

Avoid Trash:Ìý

Avoid creating trash wherever possible: when ordering food, avoid receiving any unnecessary plastic utensils, straws, etc. (ask in advance), buy ice cream in a cone instead of a cup, don't accept "free" promotional products, buy products with the least amount of packaging, etc. Every little bit of trash avoided does make a difference!

Shopping Bags:Ìý

While shopping, if you only buy a few products skip the shopping bag. For larger purchases, bring your own.

Ìý

Green Hotels:Ìý

When staying at a hotel, motel, or bed and breakfast let the management know that you like to support businesses that adopt environmentally responsible practices (including reducing waste). Print out and drop off theÌýSustainable Solutions for Green HotelsÌýenvironmental tips list. To locate environmentally friendly hotels, search on the Internet under "ecotourism" and/or visitÌýGreen Hotels Association.

Waste-Free Lunches:Ìý

Pack a Waste-Free LunchÌýwhenever possible.

Mug-to-Go:Ìý

Carry a mug with you wherever you go for take out beverages.

Protect Children:Ìý

New American Dream offersÌýtips for protecting your children from intrusive and harmful advertisingÌýthat promotes mindless consumption.

Ìý

Zero Waste:Ìý

Zero Waste AmericaÌýandÌýZero Waste AllianceÌýprovide information on becoming a "Zero Waste" activist. "Waste is a resource in disguise." (quote from Zero Alliance)

The Compact:Ìý

Join or form aÌýCompactÌýin your area - groups all across the globe committing for 12 months to not buy any new products (see lower right sidebar for groups).

Reuse

The media have done a wonderful job of selling us on the attractiveness and benefits of buying "new", "improved", "special", etc. products. However, we already collectively own so much that we could all survive for quite a while on the existing products - if we just reused them a few times!

Garage Sales:Ìý

Shop at and hold garage sales - this is a great way to reuse products.

Reusables:Ìý

Switch from disposable to reusable products: food and beverage containers, cups, plates, writing pens, razors, diapers, towels, shopping bags, etc.

Donations:Ìý

Donate your old:

• household items - clothes, furniture, dishes, books, sports equipment, magazines, appliances, electronics, business attire, wedding attire, etc. (to charity)
• computer equipment
• building material (to companies who specialize in selling used material)
• cell phones and ink cartridges.
• eyeglasses (toÌý, For-Eyes, Pearle, orÌýLenscrafters
• extra hangers (to your local dry cleaners)
• art materials (to a school or cultural organization)
• unwanted boxed/bagged/canned food (to homeless shelters, food banks, or soup kitchens)
• etc.

Buy/Sell Used Items:Ìý

Buy and sell your items on sites such as:

• Ìýprovides a great free way to buy/sell/give away used items in your local community (select your community from listings on the right)
• Ìýfacilitates buying and selling used products (for home and work)
• Local second hand stores

Freecycle:Ìý

The Freecycle NetworkÌýprovides an online community tool for giving and receiving free stuff.

Ìý

Share:Ìý

thingloopÌýfacilitates sharing our belongings with each other.

Throwplace:Ìý

Throwplace.comÌýlets you list items online that you would like to give to nonprofit organizations, businesses, or individuals.

Ìý

Community Swap:Ìý

Organize a community swap program (i.e., designate a place where people can leave unwanted items for others to use).

Packing Peanuts:Ìý

Arrange to drop off at a local packing, shipping or moving store.

Ìý

Wash and Reuse Plastic Bags:Ìý

With either aÌýwooden bag dryerÌýor in theÌýwashing machine.

Buy Durables:Ìý

Buy products that will last and take care of them.

Ìý

Teach Thrift:Ìý

Teach your children the value of being thrifty (the wise economy in the management of money and other resources; frugality).

Frugal Printing:Ìý

Use both sides of each piece of paper—for note taking or printing documents from your computer (at home or work). Create note pads by stapling together once-used paper.

Ìý

Kitchen Reuseables:Ìý

Instead of buying these items new, save and reuse all: paper bags, rubber bands, twisties, boxes, and packaging material. Reuse your plastic bags with a handyÌýbag dryer.

Library:Ìý

Pick up books from your local library or used book store. The library is also many times a great place for finding magazines, CDs, books-on-tape, and videos.

Ìý

Share with Neighbors:Ìý

Join in with neighbors to purchase infrequently used products such as lawn mowers, ladders, etc.

Refurbished Computers:Ìý

Buy refurbished computers for less

Ìý

Rechargeable Batteries:Ìý

Purchase rechargeable batteries and a battery recharger (some battery rechargers will also recharge regular alkaline batteries). Solar powered battery rechargers are available online.

University Reuse:Ìý

Dump and RunÌýis a nonprofit organization that organizes the collection of college students' castoff items in the spring, so they can be sold to incoming students in the fall. The proceeds are then donated to nonprofits.

Recycle

Recycle Bins:Ìý

Create designated holding "bins" for each type of recycled product and place in convenient locations in your home/garage

Ìý

Recycling Fact Sheet:Ìý

Create a local recycling fact sheet for yourself and interested neighbors. The local Yellow Pages,ÌýInternet Consumer Recycling GuideÌýandÌýRecycling ResourcesÌýare great resources. Find out where you can recycle:

• glass
• paper products
• plastic grocery bags (better yet—use cloth bags)
• aluminum
• cardboard
• tin cans
• scrap metal
• motor oil (one quart of oil can kill fish in thousands of gallons of water)
• ink cartridges
• household appliances such as refrigerators
• computer equipment and other electronic devices
• aseptic packaging (square boxes used for liquids)
• styrofoam
• tires
• athletic shoes (contact a local sporting goods or athletic shoe store - some donate used shoes, others recycle them)
• etc.

Ìý

Recycled Content:Ìý

Ask your local retailers to stock more products made from recycled materials and buy products made from the highest recycled content whenever possible.

Green Paper:Ìý

In general, try to buy products/containers made from recycled material as often as possible to support the recycled product market. When purchasing paper products (toilet paper, etc,), look for paper that has been recycled using a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste. Also, purchase from companies that do not use chlorine to bleach their paper products (which createsÌýdioxinÌýwaste).

Ìý

Natural Fertilizer:Ìý

Leave grass clippings on the lawn as fertilizer.

Composting:Ìý

Start a compost pile with yard trimmings and food scraps. Learn more at Wikipedia's Compost page.

Ìý

Pack-it-Out:Ìý

If you are traveling and no recycle bins are available, pack your recyclables home with you whenever possible.

Eco-Friendly Burials:Ìý

For the ultimate in recycling, check out the growing movement in eco-friendly burialsÌýandÌýconservation burial.

Ìý

Recycled Gold:Ìý

If you are shopping for wedding rings or other jewelry consider buying recycled gold jewelryÌýandÌýsynthetic diamondsÌýandÌýgemstones.

Hazardous Waste:Ìý

The other key aspect of dealing with waste effectively is to dispose of toxic products at a hazardous waste facility. Products requiring special handling include:

• Building Materials - paint , varnish, paint thinner, solvents, rust remover, wood preservatives and driveway sealer
• Automotive products - gasoline, transmission oil, brake fluid, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid, power steering fluid, used motor oil,used oil filters, used antifreeze
• Household cleaners - spot removers, rug cleaners, metal cleaners, bathroom cleaners, oven cleaner, drain cleaner
• Pesticides - insect killers, weed killers, flea products, moth crystals, fertilizers with weed killer
• Miscellaneous - photographic chemicals, acids and corrosive chemicals, pool chemicals, compact fluorescent light bulbs, Ni-Cd batteries

Water Conservation Actions & Activities

Freshwater degradationÌýis a looming crisis that we must face head on with strong and effective actions. Please do your part to protect this precious resource and call upon your elected representatives to take action today to protect not just future generations but our own future by adopting sustainable water practices. OnlyÌýÌý- we must protect this critical resource. In addition, water-related energy consumes a large amount of energy. In California, for example, water use consumes 19% of the state's electricity, 30% of it's natural gas, and 88 billion gallons of diesel fuel annually.

Set Goals:Ìý

To reduce your water consumption:

• Set specific water reduction goals—for example, commit to using 20% less per month
• Determine a baseline to start reducing from.
• Chart the number of gallons of water used in the last 12 months (for comparison to each month this year)
• Make specific changes in products used and family member habits:
• buy water saving products where needed
• get your family involved by asking for specific changes in everyone's habits (e.g., place signs near water outlets reminding family members to reduce consumption (e.g., shorter showers, turning the faucet off when not needed, only watering outdoor plants in the morning or evening))
• look for additional ideas below
• Once a month, add the new usage information to the charts and make adjustments as needed to reach your goals
• Use the money saved to do something fun with your family (if you have children, increase their allowances by the amount saved to encourage them to get involved in finding new ways to conserve)

Water Consumption:Ìý

Each time you turn on a water faucet use the lowest pressure necessary. Keep the water turned on only while it is needed. For drinking water, keep a pitcher in your refrigerator so you don't have to let water run to cool.

Low Flow Toilets:Ìý

One of the best ways to avoid wasting water is to switch to low flow or dual flush toilets. VisitÌýTerry Love's consumer toilets reportÌýfor a great review on available low flow toilets. Flush your toilet only every other time or when it has solid waste.ÌýLeakAlerterÌýnotifies you if your toilet is leaking.

Showers:Ìý

Replace existing shower heads with the lowest flow product you can find. Shower heads with a mist setting let you reduce water flow even further. Shower instead of taking a bath. Time your showers - try to keep them to 5 minutes. If taking a bath, limit how high you fill the tub.

Aerators:Ìý

Install flow restrictor aerators inside all faucets for a savings of 3 to 4 gallons per minute.

Full Loads:Ìý

Always run full loads of laundry and dishes. Choose the short cycle at low water levels whenever possible. Set the clothing washer at the lowest possible temperature needed and for single rinse only. If you buy a new appliance, switch to a water-conserving model (e.g., front loading washer).

Dish Washing:Ìý

Use your dishwasher and don't rinse dishes beforehand (for an average 20 gallon savings).

Fix Leaks Promptly!:Ìý

It is estimated that 13.7% of household water is wasted by leaks. Check your water meter when no one is using water in the house. If it's moving there's a leak. A running toilet can waste 2 gallons a minute. Check by adding food coloring to the tank without flushing. After 10 minutes, look for leaks indicated by color in the bowl. This is most likely a wornÌýflapper valve that can easily be replaced.

Native Plants:Ìý

Fill your yard with native plants. This will cut down significantly on watering requirements and, in the process, provide much needed food and shelter to local wildlife.

Mulching:Ìý

Mulch your gardens to reduce water evaporation around your plants (this also reduces weeds and builds healthy soil).

Drip Irrigation:Ìý

Install a drip irrigation system to water your plants more effectively

For Your Hoses:Ìý

Buy a squeeze nozzle for all of your hoses. However, if you're watering plants, use a watering can to reduce water waste.

Best Time to Water:Ìý

Water at night to minimize evaporation.

Leftover Water:Ìý

If you have house plants, whenever possible water them with leftover or unused water from drinking, cooking, and showering. Keep of water pitcher near your sink or bathtub and collect unused water running from the tap (waiting for cooler or warmer water).

Car Wash:Ìý

Take your car to a car wash that recycles water. If you wash it yourself, use a bucket and sponge and rinse sparingly.

Greywater System:Ìý

Find out if creating aÌýgreywater/waste waterÌýsystem would work for you.

Tap Water:Ìý

Make the switch back to environmentally-friendlyÌýtap waterÌýinstead of bottled water.

Cooking Vegetables:Ìý

Steam rather than boil your veggies to save a quart or more of water. Better yet, try giving vegetables a quick rinse, placing them in a covered bowl, and microwaving them for a minute or two.

Drinking Water:Ìý

In the U.S., learn more about your drinking water atÌýEPA's Ground Water and Drinking WaterÌýsite.

Water Shortage Issues:Ìý

Organization that is working on international water shortage issues:

Related Resources

Do you know how much water you use in a typical day? Discover ways to conserve water with some very easy changes.

ÌýÌý

searchable database contains over 2150 proven solutions from more than 140 countries to the common social, economic and environmental problems of an urbanizing world. Do a Database Search on 'water'.

use biological processes to deal with the disposal and processing of human excrement into organic compost material. Composting toilets do not require water.

wastewater generated from processes such as washing dishes, laundry and bathing and reused typically for irrigation.

eight goals that all 191 United Nations member states have agreed to try to achieve by the year 2015. Goal number 7 includes a commitment to reduce by half the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water.

the collection and storage of rain from roofs or from a surface catchment for future use. The water is generally stored in rainwater tanks or directed into mechanisms which recharge ground water.

wastewater (sewage) that has been treated and purified for reuse, rather than discharged into a body of water.

an environmentally friendly laundry detergent and general cleaning soap made from soap nut berries.

the desalination of water using solar energy.

award winning inexpensive and sustainable water filtration systems for developing countries.

using technology and water-conserving practices to minimize wasting water.

ÌýÌý

Actions & Activities

Recycling Program:Ìý

If a recycling program has not already been started at your company, start one yourself (or improve the program already in place).

Ìý

Recycled Material:Ìý

Encourage the office/purchasing manager to purchase products containing recycled material (paper, plastic, etc.).

Materials Exchange:Ìý

You can find exchange programs atÌýRecycler's WorldÌýandÌýState-specific Materials Exchange ProgramsÌý(U.S.)

Ìý

Product Design:Ìý

Better by DesignÌýhelps in designing environmentally friendly products.

Green Purchasing:Ìý

Learn about green purchases through:

• Ìý(free software)

Energy Reduction:Ìý

Schedule an energy audit through your local energy provider to determine how to reduce energy use.

Ìý

Environmental Policy:Ìý

Strategic Planning resources for defining your company's environmental policy:

Related Resources

Green Meetings and Conventions:Ìý

A growing number of businesses are greening their meetings and conventions.

Ìý

Green Building:Ìý

Encourage your company to look into building or leasing space in a "green" building. The EPA can provide information through theirÌýBusiness Improvement program.

Shipping:Ìý

Whenever possible, chooseÌýenvironmentally-friendly packaging material. If your company uses pallets to ship boxes stabilized with stretch wrap, strapping, or corner boards, look into switching to more environmentally-friendly unitizing systems such asÌýLock n' PopÌý(no endorsement intended).

Ìý

Junk Mail:Ìý

Check into ways toÌýreduce business junk mail.

Computers:Ìý

Buy refurbished computers for less. Also considerÌýdonating used computer equipment. If you purchase new equipment, theÌýElectronic Product Environmental Assessment ToolÌýandÌýGuide to Greener ElectronicsÌýcan help you make greener choices.

Ìý

Zero Waste:Ìý

EPA: Zero WasteÌýandÌýZero Waste AllianceÌýprovide information on shifting your business toward producingÌýzero waste.

Reusing Ink Cartridges:Ìý

Cartridge WorldÌýwill refill your printer cartridges at half retail price.

Ìý

Paper Use:Ìý

Use both sides of each piece of paper—for note taking or printing documents from your computer (at home or work). Create notepads by stapling together once-used paper.

Lunch:Ìý

Pack a Waste-Free Lunch whenever possible.

Ìý

Break Room:Ìý

Ask co-workers to bring their unwanted cups, mugs, plates, cloth napkins, and silverware to work to replace disposable items in the break room.

Green Hotels:Ìý

Encourage your company to use the Green Hotel Initiative’s Best Practices Survey to determine which hotels to book traveling employees or visitors at.

Ìý

Environmental Career:Ìý

Looking for an environmental job? Check out: