Earth Day Canada: Top 10 Actions

Earth Day Canada, a national environmental charity, is encouraging Canadians to renew their commitment to the environment this month as part of Earth Day 2009. The great part about Earth Day Canada's top 10 actions is that every one is doable today, so there's no reason why we can't starting doing our part. You know what they say: If everyone does their part, it will add up to big change.  1. Smart Shopping “Buy what you need, not what you want” Consider renting and borrowing things that are seldom needed Buy used items from garage sales and second-hand stores 2. Simple Savers Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs Use aerators on faucets and shower heads Weatherstrip windows and doors 3. Transportation Alternatives Walk, cycle, car pool and use public transportation When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure Consider car sharing programs or renting 4. Food Choices Choose local and organic foods that are in season, and support local food producers Eat less meat 5. Washing and Drying Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry 6. Heating and cooling In the summer, set your thermostat to 24oC or 25oC In the winter, set your thermostat to 19oC or 20oC Install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats 7. Close to Home Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible 8. Bathroom Basics Take short showers instead of baths Close water taps while brushing your teeth 9. Careful Cleaning Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning product Make simple, natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water 10. Don’t Discard Donate, reuse and recycle items before throwing them into the trash Harmful materials like chemicals, batteries, electronics, etc. should be taken to local hazardous waste depots or recyclers