April 22nd. – Earth Day
Some of Earth Day Canada’s actions to reduce your impact on the environment:
Smart shopping
–Buy what you need, not what you want
-Consider renting and borrowing things that are seldom needed
-Buy used items from garage sales and second-hand stores
Simple savers
-Replace incandescent light bulbs with LEDs
-Use aerators on faucets and shower heads
-Weatherstrip windows and doors
Transportation alternatives
-Walk, cycle, car pool and use public transportation
-When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure
-Consider car-sharing programs or renting
Food choices
-Choose local and organic foods that are in season, and support local food producers
-Eat less meat
Washing & drying
-Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry •
Heating and cooling
-For summer air conditioning, set your thermostat to 24°C or 25°C
-For winter heating, set your thermostat to 19°C or 20°C
-Install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats
Close to home
-Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible
Bathroom basic
-Take short showers instead of baths
-Close water taps while brushing your teeth
Careful cleaning
-Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products
-Make simple, natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water
Don’t discard
-Donate, reuse and recycle items before throwing them into the trash
-Harmful materials like chemicals, batteries and electronics should be taken to local hazardous waste depots or recyclers