Easy Ways to Help the Earth

1. Don't litter.
2. Re-use containers such as plastic butter tubs or bread bags. Paper bags can be used to line your trash can or to hold your recycled newspapers and other paper items.
3. Use cold water in the washing machine whenever possible.
4. Choose re-usable containers for food storage rather than aluminum foil or plastic wraps.
5. Wear extra clothing and turn your heat down a little.
6. Call your utility company and ask for a free energy audit.
7. If you use a wood stove or have a fireplace, burn seasoned wood only and try to cut back on how often you light them.
8. Turn off water that you are not using.
9. Donate your re-usable, unwanted items to a thrift shop or charity that can use them.
10. Re-use wire coat hangers or simply return them to the dry cleaner.
11. For every hour that you will be asleep or away from home, lower your thermostat by 1 degree.
12. Cut back on the use of electrical appliances. For example, if you can open a can by hand, do it.
13. Turn off the TV, lights and other appliances if you are not in the room using them.
14. Buy a low-flow faucet aerator (not to be confused with standard screen aerators). These are sold in hardware or plumbing stores and are very inexpensive. Aerators can reduce the normal flow (3-5 gallons per minute) by 50% and the flow will actually seem stronger.
15. Try using biodegradable wax paper instead of baggies (plastic) or foil.
16. Use rags for kitchen mishaps instead of paper towels. Rags can also be washed and reused.
17. Call your local water utility to see what they have for free information or conservation devices.
18. For efficient refriederator operation:
    • Refriderator temps should be between 38° and 42°. The freezer should be 0° to 5° .
    • Clean out the condenser coils once a year. Vacuuming them works very well.
    • Make sure to keep the door gasket clean so that the seal is tight.
19. Always wait until you have a full load of laundry before running the washing machine.
20. Clean out the lint trap in your clothes dryer after every use.
21. Write to:
    The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
    1001 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 535
    Washington, DC 20036
    for more informaition.
22. Use rechargeable batteries.
23. If it's possible, recycle alkaline batteries.
24. Install a low-flow shower head. (Don't confuse this with "flow restrictor" or the plastic, cheap heads. You won't enjoy your shower with those 2 options!) In some areas, the local utility company may offer them for free!
25. Set your water heater at 130°.
26. Ask your utility company to isulate your water heater (usually free of charge).
27. Use stairs instead of elevators (if possible).
28. Ride a bike or walk more rather than drive.
29. Take advantage of public transportation.