| Showing 1-10 of 74 results | Sort By » |
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
Word-of-mouth is still the best way to get others to do something. Attend a Living Green workshop or read our monthly sustainability savings tip. Learn about both here. Get creative with your family, your neighbors, your schools, or your workplace, and teach how to recycle, plant a tree, or celebrate Earth Day. (Snap a pic of yourself sharing the news!)
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
What’s your excuse for not being sustainable? We all use them. “Taking the light rail takes too much time.” “The CFL light bulb isn’t bright right away.” “I left my canvas shopping bag in the car again.” Sometimes being sustainable takes more time, takes more thought, and isn’t quite as convenient. Change simple behaviors that have a big impact. Wash dishes and laundry with full loads, unplug charging stations, drive smarter for better gas mileage. (Take a photo of yourself doing any of these things).
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
Permeable paving allows precipitation to percolate into the soil below. The benefits? Less erosion, flooding and heat build-up, as well as better water quality and groundwater recharge. If you’re resurfacing, do some research when choosing a surface. You can select from stabilized granite, permeable pavers, asphalt or concrete, or use permeable plastic or metal grids that hold grass or gravel into place. Otherwise, capture as much water as you can on your property and direct it to your plants before allowing it to drain into the street. Rainwater is great for your plants.
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
Some chemicals in household products can harm people, animals, and plants. They may pollute the air, water, or soil. Educate yourself about the products and look for the active ingredient on the label. Deal with unwanted pests with natural pesticides; choose cleaning products made from simple products like baking soda or vinegar, or buy non-toxic, natural products at the grocery store. (Take a pic of yourself scrubbing the counters or sink or sprinkling boric acid for pests!)
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
It takes water to make energy, and it takes energy to process and deliver water. So when you save one, you’re saving the other too. There are lots of water-saving tips here and energy-saving tips here. Do at least one of the tips on the website, or one of these. xeriscape (low-water landscaping), install high-efficiency toilets, get a low-flow showerhead and more; get tax rebates for energy efficiency improvements such as windows, insulation, new air conditioners and even solar panels; buy Energy Star and WaterSense products or services.
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
Food miles are the distance your food travels from the grower to your plate. The more food miles, the more fuel used, and the more CO2 emissions. The benefits are fresher foods and supporting your local growers. Check labels to find food from the closest source; shop at your local Farmer’s Market to find locations; join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. With membership, a local farmer will provide you with a weekly harvest of seasonal food, then type in your zip code to find one near you).
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
Cheap fuel is a thing of the past and transport systems have significant impacts on energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Carpool or check out your alternate transportation options and let someone else do the driving. If you can, purchase a hybrid or other fuel-efficient vehicle. Don’t forget bicycling and walking and you’ll get your exercise too. (Take a pic of yourself using alternative transportation!)
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
Weather you decide to support a local charity or one that acts nationally or globally, we have just one planet to share. Extra support to improve our environment or overall sustainability can make a world of difference. Support a nonprofit with time, funding or both.
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
Elected officials need to know what concerns their community and they like to be appreciated by their constituents – so they often will listen to them. Don’t be intimidated to share your thoughts on environmental or sustainability issues. Be brief, clear, and provide specific ideas. In your communication, demonstrate respect and courtesy; provide them with an opportunity to get more information if necessary. Find out how to contact your city councilperson here. (Snap a pic of yourself contacting your elected official!)
Mesa, AZ
Challenge
According to the Department of Energy, buildings account for 39% of the total energy use in the US, 68% of total electricity use and 16% of total water use, and they contribute 38% of the CO2 emissions. Go here for home building and remodeling guidelines; check out the great tax rebates currently being offered for energy efficiency improvements such as windows, insulation, new air conditioners, and even solar panels. Pay now to save later: some items may cost more initially, but will pay off monthly in water and energy savings; Look for the Energy Star and WaterSense label when purchasing household appliances or fixtures. (Take a pic of yourself doing any of these things!)
