Save money on gas and reduce carbon emissions by carpooling. Some web sites with free resources to check out:
Carpool CREW: Matches people based on many criteria.
DivideTheRide: People can organize carpool calendars with people they know.
eRideShare: Connects commuters traveling in the same direction.
If you are a Facebook addict, and many are, check out their Carpool application.
Real Christmas trees are actually better for the environment: Artificial trees are likely to be from China and contain both lead and PVC, and can even cause an allergic reaction. Real pine trees are crops. When farmers cut down a tree, they plant a new one. And if you can find a local tree farm that does not use chemical pesticides, so much the better. After Christmas, recycle your tree or even plant it in a barrel for next year.
From the November 2008 Body + Soul magazine -
In 7,100 US communities, residents can no longer afford to ignore their eco-footprint. The waste-reduction program known as Pay-As-You-Throw has helped to eliminate from 4.6 to 8.3 million tons of solid waste each year. PAYT programs lead to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions as well-up to 3.8 million metric tons of carbon equivalents annually-as a result of lower overall processing costs. To find out more, visit the EPA's web site.
Ways to reduce your solid waste: Recycle, Compost, Buy Used or Barter for things you need.
Something stinky lurking in those air fresheners: For the estimated 75% of American households using air fresheners, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) found that 12 out of 14 common air fresheners (including those marked "all natural" or "unscented") contained hormone-disrupting chemicals.
For a more natural breath of fresh air, try opening your windows. Or try an essential-oil spray you can make yourself by combining 30-40 drops of up to 3 different oils with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and shake well before use.
Stationery you can feel good writing home about:
Crane & Co. uses textile waste for its 100% cotton stationery and note cards.
Smock uses sustainable bamboo paper printed with vegetable, low-VOC inks for its letterpress stationery.
Great Elephant Poo Poo Paper Company uses elephant dung to create stationery sets and notebooks.
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