21 Ways to Help Mother Earth

1. When using a dishwasher use energy saving setting to dry the dishes. Do not use the heat when drying.
2. Wash clothes in warm or cold water, not hot.
3. Turn down your water heater thermostat: 120 degrees is usually hot enough.
4. Don't over heat or over cool rooms. Adjust your thermostat (lower in the winter and higher in the summer).
5. Clean or replace air conditioners as recommended.
6. Buy energy efficient compact florescent bulbs.
7. Wrap your hot water heat in an insulated jacket.
8. Install low flow water heads to use less hot water.
9. Caulk and weather strip around windows and doors to plug air leaks.
10. Ask your utility company for a home energy audit to find out where your home is poorly insulated or energy inefficient.
11. Whenever possible walk, bike, carpool, or use mass transit.
12. When you buy a car choose one that gets good gas mileage.
13. Reduce waste: buy minimal packaged goods; choose reusable products over disposable ones; recycle.
14. If your car has an air conditioner, make sure its coolant is recycled whenever you have it serviced.
15. Insulate your walls and attic.
16. If you need to replace your windows, install the best energy saving models.
17. Plant trees next to your home and paint your home a lighter color if you live in a warm climate, or a darker color if you live in a cold climate.
18. If you replace home appliances, select the most energy efficient models.
19. Reduce waste and promote energy efficient measures at your school or workplace. Work in your community to set up recycling programs.
20. Be informed about environmental issues. Keep track of candidates voting records and write or call to express concerns.
21. Buy organic and buy local.