How to Live More Gently on Earth Steps

How to Live More Gently on Earth Steps to Take For Us in the United States to Lower Resource Consumption • Reduce Water Use – Remove front lawns: Plant vegetation adapted to your area (Xeric Landscaping). – Collect water in buckets from showers and faucets until correct temperature and use water for plants. – Wash cars on lawns or take to carwash that recycle water. – Don’t wash sidewalks and driveways: sweep. – Use water efficient washers, low flow toilets, and shower heads. – Don’t over water lawns or gardens; put on timers; turn off when wet season (no need to water if nature does).

• Recycle As Much As You Can • Bring Hazardous Waste to Collection Centers (oil, oil filters, batteries, light bulbs, paint). • Use Reusable Bags at Stores (no plastic). • Cut Down On Fossil Fuel Use – Use fuel efficient cars (hybrids, electric). – Stack up trips around town. – Use mass transit if you can; bike/walk short distances. – Hang clothes on cloth line (don’t use dryer on sunny days).

• Don’t Buy Produce Out of California/U. S. – Learn to eat produce in season. • Conserve Electricity – Turn out lights when not in a room. – Don’t leave on T. V. s and radios when not using. – Put outside lights on timers/light sensors. – Use power strips on radios, stereos, computers, T. V. s so all power can be turned off when not in use. • Install Solar Panels on House (if you can afford it).

• Keep Vehicles Running Well – Keep tires inflated to correct pressure. – Don’t bitch about smog testing. • Don’t Have Trees Trimmed or Thinned. • Support Environmental Legislation! (Be smart though; know what is really happening in community, California, U. S. , and the World. )