Leaving a Smaller "Footprint" on the Earth (cont.)

Because the number of ways we can lighten our energy usage is unlimited, what follows are just a few suggestions and facts:

• Know the kilowatt-hour usage of your home and make an effort to reduce it. Turn off lights not in use. Use fans instead of air conditioning whenever possible.

• Replace standard light bulbs with energy-efficient fluorescent.

• Buy a KWH meter to check "phantom loads" on devices that use electricity even when not turned on. )(TVs and computers are examples). Use power strips for these devices so you can turn them off when not in use.

• Dry your clothes on an outdoor clothes line.

• Install electronic ignition (no pilot lights) in gas appliances.

• Consider tankless water heaters for hot water and a solar oven for some cooking.

• Caulk all doors and windows. Add insulation in your attic, and install insulating shades on your windows.

• Use public transport, bike, walk, carpool, and drive fuel-efficient cars.

• Reduce your speed, accelerate slowly, and anticipate your stops (be light on the gas pedal). Check tire pressure regularly and use the air conditioning sparingly. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables from locally grown markets and co-ops.

• Reduce or eliminate meat consumption--livestock make huge demands on water, grain, and land usage. Avoid processed foods and over-packaged items.

• Compost your organic wastes. Recycle your paper, metals, plastics, and glass. Send very little to the dump and place your waste can at the curb only when it's full.