Unplug power plugs when not using.

I keep canvas totes in the trunk of my car and a little fold up one in my handbag. Forced myself in the habit of no more plastic bags.

kind of a no-brainer, but we recycle whatever we can.

using my coffee mug at work instead of the paper cups the company provides

One of the most significant eco-tips in my life this year has been that eating a vegetarian diet (or even just having one meatless day a week) can have a great positive environmental impact.

Just one more reason to turn down the mystery meat in the dining hall for vegetable stir-fry.

My eco-friendly tip is to shop at farmer’s markets. What’s available in the supermarket has been shipped halfway around the world, so by buying locally I’m cutting down on my carbon footprint. Plus the food is so much better! And at least in my area, the farmer’s market prices are often a little less than grocery store prices, so I can even save a little money.

EAT LOCAL! This is a fun one, because in addition to helping reduce carbon output, you get to meet those who are providing you food (at farmer’s markets etc) and challenge yourself to cook something new.  If you join a CSA you will likely be eating many more vegetables than before as well, which is healthier for you AND the environment.

Recycle that Christmas tree! Many municipalities offer tree mulching after the holidays.

We are changing to supersaver energy efficient light bulbs, one bulb at a time.

I’ve been saving the fabric “scraps” from my sewing projects, trimming them nicely, and using them to wrap gifts.  Far less paper waste!

We are changing to supersaver energy efficient light bulbs, one bulb at a time.

I always try and carry a canvas bag around just in case.  You never know when plastic bags try and haunt you!!!

Put your lights on timers - Coming home to a light on is always nice (and makes it easier to find your keys!) but leaving the power on all day isn’t a fab idea. This also works for your holiday lights… no reason to keep them on all night long…

Artificial Christmas trees have a much larger carbon footprint than farm-grown trees. They are made from petroleum products and shipped from China! Wow—now we don’t have to feel guilty about buying a cut tree, although live trees that you can plant in your yard are the best.

my favorite thing to do is make wildflower seed wrapping paper for gifts. usually I use brown paper grocery sacks and old news papers. just follow any simple paper making recipe and sprinkle in the seeds. include a little note with the paper and when planting season starts, just put them in the garden. gorgeous, and functional!

Bring your own reusable, canvas bags when grocery shopping.

Walk!  Saves gas, reduces air pollution, and keeps you fit.  Not to mention the psychological benefits.

Turn off the light when you leave the room!

Bike to work!  (and the grocery store, restaurants, etc.)  Luckily, I’m in a town where biking is very much encouraged and practiced.

I recently took on the chairman’s seat on the environmental committee at my son’s school.  The on-going project is collecting old ink and laser cartridges, phones, and dvds for recycling.  It educates the parents and kids, as well as being a small fundraiser for the PTA.

I love to recycle. :)

When brushing my teeth, I don’t keep the water running.

turn off the lights, recycling everything, keeping donations to goowill in my thoughts, and always carrying a spare tote in my handbag just in case

turn off the lights, recycling everything, keeping donations to goowill in my thoughts, and always carrying a spare tote in my handbag just in case

My favorite eco-friendly tip: line dry!  It reduces energy costs and makes your clothes stay brighter and last longer!