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HOME
As Dorothy in the
Wizard of Oz said: "There's no place like home." This
is where we all can take a hard look at our individual impacts
on the environment and natural resources. Young people can take
the lead in environmental awareness in their homes by helping to
educate their families and promote environmentally-friendly
living. |
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Environmental goals can be
decided upon by the family, and family members can take turns in
monitoring weekly activities that cut down on the negative impact on
the environment and our natural resources. Here are some
things we can do: |
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Choose renewable sources of energy, such as solar |
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Install energy efficient appliances |
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Install
low water use shower heads and toilet fixtures |
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Set water heaters at lower levels |
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Put insulating jackets on water heaters |
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Conserve water |
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Use mass transit and bicycles as much as possible |
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Buy environmentally-friendly products |
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Turn computers and equipment off when not in use |
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Turn lights off when not in use |
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Recycle plastic, glass,
cans, packaging |
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Dispose of hazardous material properly |
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Plant shade trees to reduce summer heat and
reduce watering
needs in summer months. |
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Leave No Trace when in
wilderness areas |
What's my impact on biodiversity?
Take Conservation
International's online quiz to determine your impact
on the natural environment. You will receive
an "eco-rating" as well as an idea of how you scored
in relation to others who have taken the test. |
What you can do at home to save biodiversity
10 things you can do as
individuals, along with your family members, to
shrink your ecological footprint.
(Conservation International) |
A
Consumer's Guide to Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy
Options for saving
energy and using renewable energy at home, at work,
in your community, and while driving. Links to
information, products, services, financial
opportunities and assistance, tips, booklet, and
latest news. (U.S. Dept. of Energy) |
Save energy and money while helping to fight global
warming
Environmental Defense lists
ways you haven't even thought of to reduce your
energy consumption, reduce pollution, save money,
and operate more efficiently by making small changes
in your daily routine. Get the facts and
helpful solutions from their team of experts.
Links are provided to help you find the information
you need. |
Water Conservation Tips
You can make a difference in
your watershed - It all begins at home.
(American Rivers) |
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Recycling - see our
Talkin' Trash
page for information and resource links. |
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What commuters can do to help the environment
How do you get to work?
Here are some tips and resources that might help you
leave your car at home. (Conservation International) |
What you can do to protect the "great outdoors."
Seven principles of outdoor
ethics to help us be good stewards of our natural
world, plus tips from the International Mountain
Biking Association. (Conservation
International)
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Sustainable Living - Read more about choices.
Calculate your ecological footprint
"If Americans take simple daily steps to practice
sustainable living, then our children will inherit a
land of plenty, immersed in natural beauty, abundant
wildlife and wild places. When we learn to live in
balance with our natural resources, we can truly be
leaders of the world." |
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- Kathy Ries, Director
Sacramento Area Earth Day Network |
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