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| There are many things that we can do in order to reduce our carbon footprint. The following lists are our adaptation to the Environmental Protection Agency recommendations:
In your home:
1. Replace the light bulbs in the areas of your home that you use the most. Make sure that the new light bulbs have the Energy Star logo. These bulbs are intended to last up to seven years and carry a two-year warranty; this is double what the industry standard requires. By replacing five bulbs, you would be saving approximately $65.00 a year. There are many styles to choose from and will save you money. They also use less energy, thus reducing your energy consumption and your Energy Footprint.
2. When you can, replace your old appliances with Energy Star Qualified Products. You can save up to $80.00 dollars a year. These appliances perform just as well as your other ones, plus use less energy. Energy Star products use 10% to 50% less energy and water than regular appliances.
3. Heating and cooling your home use a lot of energy. Ensure that your air filters are replaced regularly, and that your heating and cooling equipment are properly serviced yearly. When it is time to replace your furnace and or air conditioning unit, ensure that you receive expert advice on the size needed to either cool or heat your home. Once you know the specifications of the equipment that you need, make sure that you purchase high efficiency items. They will not only last longer, but will save you money.
4. Inspect your home for leaks and cracks. Use the old lighted candle trick. Light a candle by your closed doors and windows, if the light flickers, there is a draft. This draft is costing you money. Have a home inspector check your attic’s insulation. Fix it accordingly. Replace your doors and windows with Energy Star Rated ones.
5. Green power is available in certain areas of the Nation. You can find out by contacting your local power company. You could also use solar power. State laws and ordnance varies by State. Again, your best bet is to contact your local energy company.
6. “Reduce, reuse and recycle” is a mantra that many of us have used for decades. Whether you believe in global warming or not, whether you are concerned with natural resources or not, it only makes sense. We try to teach our children responsibility, the same principle applies to us grown ups. Recycle containers, plastic bags, paper bags, motor oil, etc. Purchase recycled items. The cycle is only complete, when you buy recycled items.
7. Practice composting in your back yard. If you can or prefer, use a push lawn mower. Do learn and practice xeroscape. Xeroscape uses less water, and is resistant to heat.
8. Look for products labeled with the EPA Water Sense label. If you are a man shave with shaving blades, turn the faucet off after soaping your face. Only turn it on when you need to clean the shaver and rinse your face. Use the old Army trick of combat showers. Wet your body, turn the faucet off, soap yourself, and then turn the faucet back on to rinse your body. A good shower should not last longer than five minutes. It will save potable water, and will keep money in your pocket.
9. Spread the word, teach your children, share your knowledge with your spouse. All of us together can make a difference. Help us protect the environment now!
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