GO THRIFTING
Look for clothes, furniture and appliances at local thrift stores. The prices can’t be beat, for great vintage and one-of-a-kind items.
REUSABLE BAGS
Chances are you’ve got a lot of them. Keep some in your trunk or under the car seat, fold one up in your backpack, keep a few at work. You’ll find many uses for them.
SWITCH YOUR SHOWERHEAD
Save 750 gallons a month with a water-efficient shower head. They’re inexpensive, easy to install and sometimes rebates are available.
EAT LOCAL
The nearer the food is grown, the less energy used to transport it. Farmer’s Markets offer fresh, organic, local products, and a fun shopping experience.
MOTION SENSORS OUTSIDE
Motion sensors on exterior lights are inexpensive, good for security, and save a lot of wasted energy.
THE RIGHT REFRIGERATOR
Determine your household’s needs before buying that new refrigerator or freezer. Going too large costs more and wastes energy.
A ONE FRIDGE FAMILY
You can spend $120 in electricity per year with a second refrigerator or freezer; more if it’s in a hot garage. If you need it during holidays, just turn it on a day or two beforehand.
SWITCH TO NATURAL GAS
Natural gas appliances are more efficient than electric appliances, cost less to operate, have no filaments to burn out, and offer better temperature control.
RECYCLED OFFICE AND SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Recycled paper takes 40% less energy to make. The performance is the same, for a minimal cost difference. Look for high postconsumer content.
