11 Things

I have come up with a list of 11 things we all can do to be a little more green.

1) Keep the lights off until the sun goes down and open the curtains to let in natural light. If you decide you do want a light on even with the curtains open, use a low watt bulb.

2) Use CFLs (Compact Florescent Lights). CFL last about 8 times longer and are more energy efficient.

3) When buying electronics and appliances buy those with then Energy Star label.

4) Use cold water when washing your laundry! 80-85% of the energy it takes to wash a load of laundry is used heating the water. Also don't use more detergent than needed. More isn't necessarily better.

5) Line dry your clothes. You'll be surprised most items will dry faster than in the dryer and you'll have less to iron. If you do chose to dry in the dryer only dry full loads, make sure the lint trap is clean.

6) Use native plants in your garden. They will need less watering, attract birds and butterflies and animals depend on them.

7) Go local. Grow your own fruits and vegetables. If you can't see about joining a community garden or buy from your local farmers markets, farms and farm stands.

8) Don't waist the water! Use gray water to water your plants. Collect the water from doing your dishes, laundry, bath/shower, gutter and kitchen sink. Make sure you water close to the roots where it is need most.

9) Refuse packaging or buy in recycled packaging. Your paying for the product not the package. Don't put your produce in plastic bags, , most come in their own packaging, we call it the skin. Buy in bulk when you can. Remember to recycle your packaging.

10) Take your own bags with you to the store, whether it be store bags you are reusing or your own reusable bags.

11) Clean naturally! Most of the indoor pollution or 'sick building syndrome' comes from using chemical cleaners that can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin. They can also cause headaches, dizziness and fatigue.