Spring Sustainability Tips

April 22nd is Earth day, a day when people all over the country (and campus) are reducing their energy consumption and participating in environmentally-friendly practices. However, there's no reason that these practices should be limited to one day; here are some tips to help you be sustainable throughout the spring!

  1. Spring cleaning: While cleaning, make sure to dispose of waste properly and use non-toxic chemicals when cleaning your windows, furniture, etc.
  2. Take a walk: Visit the local farmer's market! They have delicious foods and products, all locally sourced.
  3. Wash your clothes in cold water: Heat accounts for an enormous amount of the energy consumed by washing machines. In addition, try hanging your clothes to dry! This will help alleviate the cost of using a clothes dryer.
  4. Make sure to adjust your thermostat accordingly: Now that winter is over, it’s important not to run your heat! Proper use of your thermostat will this reduce energy consumption and you'll be much more comfortable. Open the windows and let the springtime breeze cool your home!
  5. Thinking about washing your car? You might want to consider using a commercial car wash. These establishments can use up to 50% less water, and have systems in place to drain water properly.
  6. If you're landscaping, consider xeriscaping or using native plants: Local plants tend to be adapted for the climate, often only requiring what nature itself provides (in terms of water consumption, soil nutrition, etc.) Grassy lawns require much more water than either of the two aforementioned options.

 

For hundreds of other sustainability tips to suit any practice you might undertake this spring, check out some of the links below: