Helping The Environment

The environment is an issue that is on everyone's minds these days. Global warming, climate change, the Kyoto agreement, renewable energy and the list goes on. The issues just seem so big; it's too much for one little person. Yet, protecting our environment starts with each person. If each person made just one small change, it would add up quickly. So, what are some of the things you can do? Here's a list of 5 simple things to help you get started.

Reduce fuel consumption.

Buy fuel efficient cars and reduce how much you use your car. Walk to nearby stores or take transit where possible. Sign petitions asking your local government to increase the funding for transit.

Reduce the fuel you use in gardening by using hand-powered tools and machines where possible. For example, use a rake or broom instead of a leaf blower. Use a manual push mower instead of an electric or gas lawn mower. Not only will you help save the environment, but with rising gas and energy prices, your wallet will thank you. For all your tools and machines, whether they are powered by hand, electricity or gas, keep them well maintained. The tools and machines will last longer and perform more efficiently.

Plant trees.

Plant more trees in your yard, as trees remove carbon dioxide from the air. For smaller yards, shrubs and bushes are a great alternative to large trees. Shrubs in the front yard are a great alternative to fences and may be more appealing to look at than a fence. Large trees do increase real estate values; even one large tree on your property will increase real estate values. If the windows in your house face north, evergreen trees will help to protect from cold winter winds. For windows facing south, deciduous trees will provide shelter from the strong, hot sun during the summer. Fruit trees provide delicious fruits, for either your family or the local wildlife.

Buy locally.

Buy locally grown produce when possible. Not only will it be fresher and tastier, but it will have required less fuel to transport it.

Reduce water consumption.

Many cities and towns now have water restrictions and limit how much water can be used to water your lawn and garden. Use rain water to water your garden instead of tap water. To help catch rain water, place buckets or barrels underneath water spouts and eavesdrops. Also look at the type of plants in your garden. Certain plants are more drought resistant than others.

Recycle and Compost.

Don't throw out your old newspaper, cardboard or glass bottles. Recycle them! Along with recycling programs, most cities are introducing composting programs. They work the same way as recycling, where you place food scraps in a container and the city collects the scraps once every week or two. Most importantly, recycling and composting reduce the amount of garbage sent to landfills.

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