My overall goal for 2008 is to become more sustainable. Here is how I plan on doing it...
1. Cut Energy Consumption: use powerstrips, unplug appliances that require "standby" to power a clock (!), use LEDs or CFLs, passively heat my home in the winter, unplug my computer!!, buy Energy Star appliances
2. Reduce Water Consumption: choose native, drought tolerant, xeric plants for my summer garden, don't leave water running while brushing teeth or doing dishes, anytime I have left over water in my water bottle--water my indoor plants with it, take shorter showers, be mindful of laundry
3. Eat Local, Organic: in the winter it is harder to find local, organic fruits and veggies but they are out there! In the summer, there is no excuse with an excellent farmers market! Also buy organic skin care and health products
4. Reduce my Greenhouse gas emissions: Bike everywhere I can, offset vehicle emissions with Terrapass, purchase renewable energy
5. Purchase only environmentally friendly products to protect my indoor air quality
6. ELIMINATE PLASTIC from my consumption: start with plastic bags from the grocery store and the ziploc you store stuff in, then move to products that aren't packaged in plastic , then phase out plastics from your home and replace with alternatives. Certainly don't use plastic water bottles.
7. Organic Pet Food: if I am eating organic, so should my pets!
8. Support local businesses: choose local, small businesses instead of large, national corporations.
9. Give back: volunteer for some environmental clean-up groups
10. Stay informed: keep up to date on current green trends and news
