7 Easy Earth Day Tricks

7 Easy Earth Day Tricks

by TODD STOLARSKI | April 22, 2015

Forty-five years ago today, environmental activist Denis Hayes coordinated the first Earth Day. Now the world's largest secular holiday, it is celebrated annually in over 192 nations. With mankind now harnessing more renewable energy than ever before, there isn't a better time to take a look at this list below of seven easy things you can do right now to make your life, and our planet, more green. Reduce, reuse, and recycle: three keys to a happy Earth Day!

1. Green your home

Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer to save on heating and cooling costs.

Unplug appliances when you’re not using them. Or, use a “smart” power strip that senses when appliances are off and cuts “phantom” or “vampire” energy use.

Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. As much as 85 percent of the energy used to machine-wash clothes goes to heating the water. Then, use a drying rack or clothesline to save the energy otherwise used during machine drying.

Install a low-flow shower-head. They don’t cost much, and the water and energy savings can quickly pay back your investment. Also make sure you have a faucet aerator on each faucet. These inexpensive appliances conserve heat and water, while keeping water pressure high.

      2.   Green your neighborhood    

Plant drought-tolerant native foliage in your garden. Many plants need minimal watering. Find         out which occur naturally in your area.

Lobby your local government to increase spending on sidewalks and bike lanes. With little                cost, these improvements can pay huge dividends in bettering your health and reducing traffic.

Visit Worldwatch Institute to see the full list.