Tips for Eco-Friendly Living

• Read labels and avoid purchasing over-packaged, non-recyclable single-serving products.
• Purchase natural, biodegradable, non-phosphate, non-toxic, non-aerosol, non-plastic products.
• Avoid items produced by companies that are known exploits of the environment.
• Avoid temptation to purchase marine life – dead or alive. Coral Reefs around the world are being decimated by mass harvesting for the “curio” ()i.e. souvenirs/dust collectors, jewelry and aquariums).
• Conserve energy by sharing rides, buying fuel efficient cars, riding bikes, and walking when possible.
• Call the municipal power company to conduct a free energy survey of your home or office, and then act on it.
• Conserve water by using water-reducing fixtures, limit shower time and fix leaks promptly.
• Landscape with native plants and trees and avoid species that require watering. Mulching around trees and shrubs helps retain moisture.
• Reduce rainwater runoff through landscaping and porous pavements.
• Composting organic kitchen and yard waste is a free and healthy alternative to chemical fertilizers.
• Hand-weeding and removal of insects and eggs is an effective alternative to chemical pesticides for minor pest problems. Try natural pesticides like tobacco water or hot pepper for more serious infestations.
• Encouraging natural predators, planting a variety of species together (versus clusters of one species), planting pest resistant plant and companion plants that have insect-repelling properties all are great options for pest control.
• Sort your trash according to local recycling laws; try to compost organic matter and yard waste, and purchase recycled products to support the industry.
• If curbside recycling hasn’t reached your area yet, call your municipality to find the nearest location of your nearest receptacles.
• Recycle old clothing and other unwanted items through yard sales. What does not sell, donate to a local charity.
• Recycle old motor oil and antifreeze at gas stations that have the facilities.