As a follow-up to last month’s article about calculating your carbon footprint, we are presenting 10 common sense tips on how you and your family can reduce it. Remember, every action you take as an individual is cumulative and contributes to a healthier environment now and in the future. Or, as the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University puts it, “Small actions spark big changes.”
Save energy and money by setting your thermostat to 68° in winter and 78° in summer and by adjusting it further when you are sleeping or not home.
Turn off lights when you leave a room
Unplug electronic devices after they are fully charged
Take shorter showers and turn off water when brushing your teeth
Set washing machine water to cold
Drive less by planning and consolidating errands
Keep your car well-serviced and check tire pressure for optimum fuel efficiency
Eat low on the food chain: less meat, more fruit and vegetables
Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees
Shop with reusable bags, and not just at the grocery store