Appliances

• Save energy by reducing appliance use. Even raising your refrigerator thermostat a few degrees or keeping it at the energy saver level can significantly lower your utility bill.
  
  Conserve energy by using cold or warm water for your laundry instead of hot water. When using the dryer, use an energy saver setting or a timed dry.
  
  Save water and energy by doing dishes by hand instead of using the dishwasher. If you must use a washer, run it only when it is full.
  
  

Transportation

• Walk, bike, carpool or use public transportation whenever possible. Not only will you get more exercise, you help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Approximately one gallon of gas emits 22 lbs. of carbon dioxide pollution.
  
  If you are planning to buy a new car, make sure to purchase one that gets good gas mileage. Consider a hybrid or electric car, which usually provide tax benefits and modern comforts, in addition to fuel efficiency.
  
  

Food

• You are what you eat, so why not start really thinking about what you're consuming? Add locally grown fruits and vegetables to your diet. They are organic, and tasty and do not need to be delivered to you cross country on a carbon dioxide emitting truck.
  
  If you have a green thumb, start your own garden. For those in smaller homes or apartments, make the most out of a porch and a windowsill with a small herb garden. Eating produce from your own garden is cost effective and environmentally friendly.
  
  

Reduce, Reuse & Recycle

• Every man, woman and child knows to follow the three Rs. But keep them in that order. First, reduce the amount of water and energy you use on simple tasks. Cut your shower time by a third or water your plants every other day.
  
  Repurpose household items as much as you can. Plastic grocery bags make ideal garbage bags. Reuse plastic bags for multiple culinary creations. Use old t-shirts as rags and old toothbrushes as scrubbers. Even shoeboxes make great storage containers.
  
  After you've reduced consumption and reused your goods, it's time to recycle. Keep labeled bins for plastic, paper, glass and aluminum in your home. Check with your city to learn about recycling centers or other recyclable items.