Top 10 Actions for Earth Day 2009

1. Smart Shopping

• “Buy what you need, not what you want”
• Consider renting and borrowing things that are seldom needed
• Buy used items from garage sales and second-hand stores

2. Simple Savers

• Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs
• Use aerators on faucets and shower heads
• Weatherstrip windows and doors

3. Transportation Alternatives

• Walk, cycle, car pool and use public transportation
• When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure
• Consider car sharing programs or renting

4. Food Choices

• Choose local and organic foods that are in season, and support local food producers
• Eat less meat

5. Washing and Drying

• Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry

6. Heating and cooling

• In the summer, set your thermostat to 24oC or 25oC
• In the winter, set your thermostat to 19oC or 20oC
• Install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats

7. Close to Home

• Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible

8. Bathroom Basics

• Take short showers instead of baths
• Close water taps while brushing your teeth

9. Careful Cleaning

• Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning product
• Make simple, natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water

10. Don’t Discard

• Donate, reuse and recycle items before throwing them into the trash
• Harmful materials like chemicals, batteries, electronics, etc. should be taken to local hazardous waste depots or recyclers