Drive less. Think about ways you can drive fewer miles in your car. Can you cluster errands together, take the bus, bike or walk? Using VanPool or the Coastal Commuter program, you may be able to use a ride share to take to work and back. If you do take the car, make an effort to fill it with other folks going to the same area. Coastal Commuters VanPool [PDF]
Be smart in the car. Inflating tires properly, avoiding peak travel times, and avoid idling your car make the energy used in your car work more efficiently. This saves the community air emissions and saves you money.
Use cold water. Cold water washes in the washing machine save energy that would otherwise be used to heat that water. If you can stand it in the shower, more power to you.
Choose smart appliances. Energy Star appliances can do the same work with less energy, which means lower utility bills for you with the same results. Even smaller items like microwaves and TV’s have Energy Star options that can make a difference. Energy Star
Command the surge protector. By plugging electronics into a surge protector and turning the surge protector off when the electronics aren’t needed, you’re able to save energy and protect your gadgets. Have some electronics that need to stay on (think alarm clock)? Surge protectors that allow for some outlets to remain on are also available.
Buy products with less packaging. Less packaging means less waste. Buying in bulk is a great way to reduce packaging and get a better value.
Think Second-hand. Many common items can be found second-hand on Craigslist, yard sales, and thrift stores. New goods require more resources than reuse of what’s already here. You can help close the loop too. Try to repair before replacing, and when you replace an item, find a way to resell or donate the old item. Craigslist
Compost. Rather than dispose of organic waste in the landfill, why not compost it in your backyard? The compost can enrich soil for your plants, and each piece of composted waste is one less item headed to crowded landfills.
Recycle. Savannah residents have curbside recycling services available through the city, but most county residents should be able to find a private recycler that will do the same thing. Once your recycler is determined, it’s up to you to support the system by buying recyclable goods, preparing waste for recycling and by purchasing items with post-consumer content to support the market for recycled commodities.
Take the Tap. Bottled water requires unnecessary resources for bottling and transporting water. Savannah’s water exceeds the standards that bottled water is tested for. Take a refillable bottle and get the best stuff for less than bottled brands.
Save the Rain. Install rain barrels at your house and you can capture free water for watering your lawn, plants or even washing your car. You can make your own rain barrels, or buy manufactured products; the gallons of rainwater they hold will mean that less water taxes the stormwater system and less water is needed from the aquifer. MPC Guide to DIY Rain Barrels [PDF]
Buy Local, & if possible Organic. Locally grown foods don’t travel as far to get to your plate. Supporting local businesses helps build our community’s capacity to respond to social and environmental issues. Use our green business directory to find which businesses are JoIN Plan partners.
Go native. Native plants are better suited to local conditions and will require fewer resources to get and maintain. What’s more, local nurseries should be able to supply what you need.
