Friday, September 18, 2009

Eco-friendly Driving - Lessening Our Carbon Footprints


For many of us, walking or using public transportation is not a viable option for getting around on a daily basis, however, there are still plenty of ways we can strive to lessen our carbon footprints.

  • Combine errands that are usually spread out over a couple of days into one trip.
  • Park and go inside to order food as opposed to using the drive-thru.

  • Carpool with neighbors or co-workers at least once a week.

  • Buy eco-friendly car parts (like oil filters)
  • Keep your car maintained. Change the oil, check the tire pressure, and regularly replace the oil filter.
  • Drive an eco-friendly car. Yes, there are some affordable options - The one pictured is the Alpin Hybrid Concept Car. More info here

  • For more eco-friendly driving tips, check out the EPA's Drive Wise page.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

How to Be an Eco-Friendly Reader


I'm an avid reader, but I rarely buy new books and magazines for myself. Originally, I was doing this because of my "genetically instilled" thrifty values - my mother was the queen of yard sale bargains when I was a kid, and I'm happy to say that particular trait didn't skip a generation!

Reading enriches our lives and creates lifelong readers and book collectors. Of course, that in itself is the main reason for the number of vast home libraries and collections. However, according to some reports, as many as 30 million trees are cut down in the U.S. alone to be used in the production of new books and magazines.
So how do you continue to enjoy reading, but minimize the effects on the environment? By becoming an eco-friendly reader. Here are a few ideas to get started: Read the full article here