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We in the United States enjoy unprecedented luxury and consume the lion’s share of the world’s resources - 80% by some estimates. We also create about 80% of the global warming pollution. We are certainly a glutonous lot. A recent study by Consulting Group Sustainability in partnership with the World Wildlife Federation reported that if the entire world enjoyed the same standard of living as the United States, it would take five earths to support us. Of concern is the fact that countries like China and India, with huge populations are quickly striving to raise their standard of living - which is placing more stress on the one earth we do have. Therefore, it benefits all of us to do what we can on the home front to help - if everyone did this, we would make a big impact. We do have to start somewhere, so here are ten things you can do right at home: 

1. Change your lightbulbs to Compact Florescent or LED. If you’re like me, you’ve resisted this change because Florescent’s can put out a really ugly color of light. But they’ve improved - buy the warm-white version and you’ll feel like your using standard lightbulbs. Avoid the ‘daylight’ version unless you prefer the classic flourescent look. To save even more energy, look into LED lights - just coming into their own. They reportedly last for many years, but are on the expensive side. Check them out here - http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/02/led_bulb_replac.php

2. Recycle. I happen to live in one of the most recycling friendly cities in the country, so it is easier, but look at your local programs and try to keep as much rubbish out of the trash as possible. If you don’t have good local programs, consider writing your garbage provider and local politicians. Again, it’s got to start somewhere - Portland was not always so progressive.

3. Shop local - look for products made within your local area. Think about buying what’s in season - we’re spoiled by being able to have just about any kind of food year around. Make eating what’s in season a game. Think about buying those tomatoes flown in from South America, etc. Granted different parts of the country pose different challenges here - but at least check out the options available.

4. Build a garden - growing your own vegetables can be rewarding and not that difficult. You really just need good soil and good sun at least 6 hours per day. Getting  your hands dirty can also be therapeutic - and it’s a great thing to be able to walk out your door and grab fresh veggies for an evening meal. An added benefit is the taste so good.

5. Indulge, but less often - it’s not about giving everything up, but spread them out. Don’t buy a latte everyday and throw that cup away. Make it a special event. The key is to spread it out.

6. Build a water collection system to capture the rainwater from your roof. This takes a few tools, and if you’re not inclined, enlist the help of a friend or family member. We’re going to build one this year and I’ll follow up with a photo of the end result. Once built, you can use the water for your garden! There are many options - here’s a quick guide: http://rainbarrelguide.com/

7. Check your house for air leaks - windows, doors and crawl spaces are prime areas to look for. Is your floor cold in the winter? If so, some good insulation will keep it warm and lower those rising heating builds - typically for less than $1 per square foot. Depending on your heating costs, this could pay off quickly. Replacing or caulking the weather seals on doors and windows is very easy. Many local utilities offer free energy audits to pinpoint opportunities for savings and offer rebates on new windows, insulation, etc.

8. Make your own greener cleaners. You really don’t need all of those different cleaners companies try to sell you. And you certainly don’t need all of those toxic chemicals. Here the simplest recipe that really works - just buy or reuse an existing spray bottle: 1/3 Vinegar plus 2/3 water - shake and use!

9. Buy less stuff. Think about what you REALLY use in a day, month or year. If you think you need or want something - hold that thought for a week or so, and if you still do, then go ahead and buy it. Resist impulsive purchases that sit around adding clutter and collecting dust before going out the door. And when you do buy things, particularly on large purchases such as furniture or appliances, buy the best you can afford. This is especially important with stuffed furniture like sofas and chairs. Make sure the frame and fabric will hold up. For example, we saw a cool-looking sectional sofa at IKEA that was less than $1,300. Many go for much more. However, when we went back two months later, it was already sagging and losing it’s shape - a clear sign of poor construction. Many companies such as Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel and Restoration Hardware actually use cardboard as padding beneath the fabric! Check the construction. Mitchell-Gold is one maker using solid wood - we have a 10-year old sofa that still has it’s shape! It costs a bit more upfront, but it’s more comfortable and actually less expensive long term. And you don’t need to buy the best - it’s more about finding something well constructed. 

As for wood furniture - check to see if it’s real wood or particle board. Again, companies such as Pottery Barn often use a think veneer - 1/32 of an inch or less over particle board. This makes fixing nicks or dents tough - and lessens the ultimate life of the item. They may look great in the catalog, but after a few short years with the kids and dogs, you’ll think otherwise.

10. Look at your travel habits - do you go frequently go to the store for small purchases? Can you group your trips together to save gas and time? Most of us have limited time and if you’re like me, you don’t relish time in traffic. Just by making fewer trips, you may uncover free time as well as cut that rising gas bill.

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