Sensible sustainability
Here are some everyday tips from CMU's Great Lakes Institute for
help you and your family practice sustainability.
Sustainable Systems to
Unplug anything currently not in use. Phantom energy is a term used to describe energy that is used while electronics are turned off, but still plugged in.
Replace any incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents (CFLs) or LED bulbs. CFLs last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs and use 75 percent less energy.
Instead of putting a roll of paper towel in your bathroom, try using a hand towel. They are more comfortable to use and less wasteful.
When buying cleaning supplies, purchase those that are plant based and phosphate free.
Use a reusable water bottle and fill it with tap or filtered water.
If you are going out to eat, call the restaurant and ask if you may bring your own container for leftovers, thus eliminating another Styrofoam take- home box in the garbage.
Ride a bike, in-line skate, skateboard or walk instead of driving. Not only is this an excellent way to exercise and conserve, but you also save money on gasoline. •
centralight summer '12
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