Ideas

We really like ideas that solve a problem or help save money while conserving environmental resources. Here are easy ones that you can do right now. (rollover links for a description)

1. Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs from the standard incandescent bulbs. CFLs use 2/3 less energy and last up to 10x longer. [1]
2. Reduce your junk mail and save paper by canceling unwanted catalogs and notifying direct mailers.
3. To reduce waste, donate household items rather than throwing them away. Your “junk” may be very useful to someone else.
4. Clean/replace air conditioning filters so your AC can work more efficiently. [2]
5. Switch to rechargeable batteries. The repeated uses and reduced waste almost always make up for the higher price. [3]

If you want to be a good steward of the earth in your everyday life, here are simple habits to adopt:

1. Use reusable grocery shopping bags instead of getting new plastic ones every time. Recycling plastic bags is great, but not using them in the first place is even better. [4]
2. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth. [5]
3. Car pool to church/youth group/meetings with friends who live nearby.
4. Print on both sides of paper. It uses less paper and saves you money.
5. Recycle at home. Get familiar with the recycling services in your neighborhood. Buy an extra trash can to use indoors for recyclables.