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Promoting good stewardship every day by helping people take care of themselves and the planet.

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Healthy Planet
 
Our planet is suffering (and because of this people are suffering too).  Let's face it, we don't have anywhere else to go.  If we make our own "house" a mess we just have to live in it.

 

So, what can one individual do to make a difference?  Use the power of purchasing (or not purchasing).  For instance, I have chosen to redirect my household spending to places and products that are safe for my family and the environment. 

What can you do?

Use less energy.  Turn out your lights when you leave a room.  Unplug appliances when they are not in use.  Use energy efficient lightbulbs such as CFLs or LEDs.   

 Lower the temperature on your thermostat in the winter and raise the temperature on you thermostat in the summer. 

Walk everywhere you can.  Use public transportation.  Park in a central location and walk to do your shopping.  Purchase a rolling shopping bag.  Walk to work, you'll be healthier and calmer.  If possible, move to a location nearer to your work. 

Purchase and use products that are environmentally friendly.  Check the company's record on energy use and environmental issues.  Remember, environmental issues are often human rights issues too. 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.  Most people have access to recycling and it's an easy way to make a difference.  Use recycyled products.  Look for labels that have a high percentage of "post-consumer content".  These are made from recycled items. 

There's nothing like clothes hung out to dry.  Save money and energy by line drying your clothes.  There are many sources for drying devices (clothesline, racks, etc).   

Eat at least one vegetarian meal a week and better yet, eat two.  Producing meat takes up a lot of resources.  If you do buy meat, buy from small, local growers and producers. 

Shop wisely.  If you make a purchase, think through your real need for the product.  Shop with a list to prevent impulse buying.  Buy from companies that use sustainable resources. Purchase (or make) reusable shopping bags.  These will save you money and keep plastic out of landfills. 

Purchase products with the ENERGY STAR to make a difference.  Last year Americans saved enough energy to power 15 million homes and enough pollution to equal taking 14 million cars off the road, all while saving 7 billion dollars in energy costs.  Products with this symbol meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US EPA and the US Department of Energy.