How to Save Your Little Corner of the Planet

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There is so much talk today about helping the environment; it can be a little overwhelming. If you take small steps and work on your own little corner of the planet, all the little efforts could add up to a huge boost for the environment.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Small post-it notes

Step1

Buy power surge "smart strips" for your electronics. All the cords end up being in one place. An added benefit is, that by turning off the power strip completely, there will be no residual power going to the electronics. This can save you quite a bit on your electric bill considering up to 40% of the normal current used when an appliance is on is also used when it's off.

Step2

Remember to turn off any lights you aren't using. Replace your regular incandescent bulbs with the "smart" fluorescent ones. They are a little more expensive but they last longer and use less energy.

Step3

Remember the three R's. Reduce the amount of trash you generate. Reuse things as often as you can. Recycle as much as you can. Most communities have a Solid Waste Committee. Contact them and see what recyclable materials they accept. They can also offer ideas on how to reuse and reduce other various types of trash.

Step4

Set your thermostat at 65 to 68 degrees and leave it there. Barring an illness, it shouldn't be that uncomfortable. Also, leaving it at a constant temperature allows for less wear and tear on the furnace and saves you from forgetting to lower the thermostat.

Step5

Make a list of the errands you need to run. Put them in order so you aren't criss crossing all over town. Car pool. See if a neighbor or a family member needs to go somewhere. Share the gas and have a nice chat.

Step6

Get gas in your car early in the morning or after dark. This keeps evaporation loss to a minimum.

Step7

Water your grass in the evening and for only 20 to 30 minutes. Try to do it every other day.

Step8

Use post it notes to remind yourself to turn off lights, appliances, open curtains. Don't forget, they can be reused too.

Step9

Turn off the water when you brush your teeth. Some people brush their teeth for two or three minutes. You don't need the water running if you aren't actually using it. You'll save water, too.

Tips & Warnings

Teach your kids about the environment. Learn to do things together.
Read the Consumer Energy Bulletins on appliances before you buy them.
Don't tamper with an appliance to try and make it more energy efficient. You could cause a potential fire hazard as well as voiding the warranty.