Our message is simple! We can progress toward a healthier and more sustainable environment by taking small steps individually. Every small step can collectively produce some big results. It all starts with the way we live at home, act in our workplace, drive our cars, shop for necessities. Here are some ideas to promote taking steps:

*Change five light bulbs from incandescent to compact fluorescent;
*When you buy a new appliance, look for Energy Star products that use less electricity.
(www.energystar.gov/);
*Buy an energy-efficient vehicle when you are ready for a new car.
(www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/).
* Combine trips and keep your car tuned to save gas and cut emissions.


Remember every thoughtful action that we make toward helping our environment takes us a step closer to a more sustainable environment! Think Green!

Just when we thought we were making progress and living a "green lifestyle" we started to hear the word "carbon footprint". Hey, we thought we had it down with recycle, buy local, eat organic and now we are challenged to reduce our "carbon footprint".

What is a "carbon footprint" and what can we do?

It's the amount(in tons) of greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere as a result of how each of us lives. It is our day-to-day activities-from driving the kids to school to what we eat for dinner. The name is taken from the word carbon dioxide and it accounts for about 84 percent of human-made greenhouse gas emissions.

The word footprint is used to describe your contributions to climate change. So next time you get in your car, to drive to the store, to buy your milk, think about your actions.

How to calculate your footprint: www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/ind_calculator.html.
Remember the lower the number the better your score!

When we reuse and recycle things from our household we help reduce! Let's change the way we think about it! Till next time

Deb at Green Girls Garage