1) Smart Shopping "Buy what you need, not what you want" Consider renting and borrowing things that areseldom needed Buy used items from garage sales and second-hand stores
2) Simple Savers Replace incandescent light bulbs with compactfluorescent bulbs Use aerators on faucets and shower heads Weatherstrip windows and doors
3) Transportation Alternatives Walk, cycle, car pool and use public transportation When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure Consider car sharing programs or renting
4) Food Choices Choose local and organic foods that are in season,and support local food producers Eat less meat
5) Washing and Drying Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry
6) Heating and cooling For summer air conditioning, set your thermostat to 24C or 25C For winter heating, set your thermostat to 19C or 20C Install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats
7) Close to Home Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible
8) Bathroom Basics Take short showers instead of baths Close water taps while brushing your teeth
9) Careful Cleaning Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products Make natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water
10) Don't Discard Donate, reuse and recycle items before throwing them into the trash Harmful materials like chemicals, batteries, electronics, etc.should be taken to local hazardous waste depots or recyclers
Earth Day Canada (EDC), a national environmental charity founded in 1990, provides Canadians with the practical knowledge and tools they need to lessen their impact on the environment. In 2004 it was recognized as the top environmental education organization in North America, for its innovative year-round programs and educational resources, by the Washington-based North American Association for Environmental Education, the world's largest association of environmental educators. In 2008 it was chosen as Canada's "Outstanding Non-profit Organization" by the Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication. EDC regularly partners with thousands of organizations in all parts of Canada.
