Earth Day

Yesterday was Earth Day. Created in 1970, it is a global day of observance of the need to protect the earth. Now...it's not just for this day to do our part to help the earth but every day. This day reminds us to do our part throughout the year to make the earth a better place to live in. Once people realize how simple it is to conserve at home and on the go it can quickly become a way of life.
Here are some things you can do...tips to help you.
First...smart shopping. Buy what you need and not what you want. Borrow or rent things not normally used that much. For instance, when I had a garden in my back yard, I borrowed neighbours tools/machines to till the soil. I didn't have to spend hundreds/thousand dollars just to buy something I would use twice a year. Also buy used items from garage/yard sales and thrift/second-hand stores.
Second...simple savers. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. Use aerators on faucets and shower heads and weatherstrip windows and doors. I know one person who put a brick in their toilet tank so it would use up less water!
Third...transportation alternatives. Walk, bike, carpool or use public transportation to get where you need to go. When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure.
Fourth...food choices. Choose local and organic foods that are in season and support local food producers. Some even choose to eat less meat.
Fifth...washing and drying. Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry. I found cold water works just as well as warm or hot water. If you don't have a clothes line outside or its winter, set one up in your basement or an area of your home that isn't used much. (like a spare room)
Sixth...heating and cooling. In the summer, set your thermostat to 23°C or 24°C and In the winter, set your thermostat to 19°C or 20°C. Also install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats.
Seventh...close to home. Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible.
Eigth...bathroom basics. Take short showers instead of baths and close water taps while brushing your teeth.
Ninth...careful cleaning. Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products and make simple, natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water. You can find these recipes on the web.
Tenth...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.

So there you have it. Some ideas you can bring into your own household. Just like how important to keep your own home tidy and clean...it's just as important to keep the earth tidy and clean as best as possible.