Checklist: Go Green |
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Using a checklist can often help you stay organized and in control. Below is a guideline you can rely on to ensure that you don't miss a task or a deadline. Feel free to print a copy, email it to yourself, or share this link with a friend. |
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1. Simple Steps | |
Unplug appliances, electronic devices and chargers when you aren't using them. | |
Turn off lights, appliances, heating and air conditioning when not at home. | |
Place your computer on sleep or standby when not in constant use. Turn it off if you won't be using it for longer periods of time. | |
Don't bother using a screen saver on your computer. It's an energy zapper! | |
Replace your CRT monitor with an LCD monitor which saves space and uses one-third of the power. | |
If you must print, use both sides of the paper. | |
Donate old equipment and appliances like your cell phone, computer, television, etc. Find a tax consultant to help maximize the benefits. | |
Clean or replace filters frequently (furnace, air conditioner, clothes dryer, dishwasher, etc.). | |
Recycle as often as possible: glass, plastic, cardboard, paper, aluminum, hazardous waste like paint and batteries, mobile phones, computer equipment, tvs, radios, etc. | |
Turn off the tap/faucet when brushing your teeth. | |
Wash dishes and laundry at colder temperatures when possible. | |
Use a clothes line and drying rack to dry laundry and dishes rather than machine drying. | |
Walk, bike, share rides or use mass transit whenever possible. | |
If you have a swimming pool, use a pool cover to prevent heat loss by evaporation. | |
2. Energy Saving | |
Get a professional evaluation. | |
Get an online current CO2 emission report. | |
Talk to your utility companies about energy saving options. | |
Research active and passive solar power, wind, geothermal and hydropower. | |
Seal up any air or water leaks in and around your home. | |
Consider replacing your furnace, heat pump, air conditioner and other appliances with energy-efficient models. | |
Install new windows that utilize glazing, tinting and other technical characteristics to conserve energy. | |
Get an insulating blanket for your water heater, especially if it’s in a cold area of your home. | |
Install high quality ceiling/attic insulation. | |
Put in energy efficient radiant floor heating that uses electric elements or hot water pumped through coils in the floor. | |
Take advantage of blinds and curtains plus trees, plants and exterior shading devices (awnings, overhangs, patio cover) to keep your house cooler in warm temperatures. | |
If you have a lawn or garden, collect rainwater for maintaining a healthy green glow. | |
If renovating or building, encorporate heat-absorbing, high density materials like concrete, bricks and tiles. | |
When building a new home, pay attention to the orientation of the house to maximize sunlight, shading and natural air ventilation. | |
Install low-flow faucet/tap aerators to conserve heat and water without water pressure loss. | |
Use low-wattage or compact fluorescent light bulbs, dimmer switches and/or timers on lights. | |
3. Protect our Environment | |
Use water-based (not oil-based alkyd) latex paint that doesn't contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds). | |
Instead of using adhesives, connect carpet fittings mechanically. | |
Make sure you're using CFC-free air conditioning. | |
Get an outdoor or indoor composter for organic kitchen waste and garden/grass cuttings. | |
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