Conservation Tips for the Home & Office

You CAN make a difference!  Over the years, Americans have gotten more environmentally-conscious and have made lifestyle changes to benefit our environment...how many people were recycling 50 years ago?  But there's still more to do... Here are some tips that make it easy to protect the oceans and the rest of the natural world!

• The average American uses 140-160 gallons of water per day.  Conserve water by not running it when it's not needed, such as when you're shaving or brushing your teeth, and when you're washing dishes.  Install a spray head onto your garden hose and use that to wash your car instead of letting the water run out the hose the whole time.
• Use energy-efficient light bulbs instead of regular light bulbs - they cost more initially, but last longer!  Also, look for energy-efficient lights for your outdoor lighting, too.  Try motion-detector lights or lights powered by photovoltaic modules that convert sunlight into electricity.

The Great Outdoors

• Reuse your plastic bags by bringing them to the beach or on a walk, and using them as trash bags!  There's so much trash discarded in the environment, it can always use a little extra help cleaning up.
• Don't water your driveway - use a broom to clean your driveway or sidewalks.  Your body will thank you for the exercise!
• Scoop your poop - animal waste is a big cause of water pollution, not to mention dirty shoes! :)  

• When you're offered a choice between paper or plastic bags for your groceries, choose neither.  Bring your own reusable canvas bag to the store, and encourage others to do the same!
• Try to save gas and reduce air pollution by combining errands, or better yet - walking or biking.