10 Ways to Go Green

10 WAYS TO GO GREEN "Going green" isn't as easy as it sounds, but it's a very rewarding endeavor. By developing sustainable, planet-friendly strategies you can also save money while you're saving the planet. 1 Waste Reduction More than just recycling, waste reduction starts with purchasing fewer items and choosing what you purchase more wisely. • Choose products without wasteful packaging Buy items that are less toxic • Check out the EPA's WasteWise program, at epa.gov/wastewise PAY AS YOU THROW There is an EPA-sponsored program where homeowners pay per can/bag of trash instead of paying a flat fee for garbage service. 2) Reuse Beyond reducing and recycling, explore ways to reuse items. • Use glasses and mugs instead of disposable cups • Donate used equipment Encourage residents to use reusable grocery bags • Visit use-less-stuff.com and redo.org for more practical ideas 3 Water Efficiency Check your community's water usage records to see how your water use trends over time. How does your community rate? The average household uses For a good water efficiency plan: 45-75 • Install water-smart faucets, showerheads and toilets • Repair leaks • Replace turf with drought-tolerant plants • Check irrigation systems monthly • Replace old or faulty spray heads GALLONS/DAY 4 Light the Way Replace regular lighting with compact fluorescent lamps (CFL's) to reduce energy use. BRIGHT IDEA! On average, replacing five old-fashioned bulbs with CFLS could save upwards of $100 annually. 5 Harness Daylight 6) Energy Star Reduce the amount of electricity use in your offices and homes: Washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators and air conditioners with Energy Star ratings will perform more efficiently. • Place workstations near windows, reducing the need for artificial light • Have cleaning crews come during the day to take advantage of natural light • Promote a habit of turning off the lights as you leave a room Visit energystar.gov for a full list of Energy Star-rated appliances. DAYSWITCH Install a photo sensor like DaySwitch to control your lights automatically. 7 Unplug Small household appliances should be unplugged when you're not using them. Did you know? • A laptop computer draws up to 80% less power than a desktop Using a microwave instead of the oven saves energy • A microwave is not only faster, but it reduces carbon dioxide emissions - about one pound for every meal! 8 ) Insulate • Homes lose significant efficiency through the attic • Install insulation without covering vents • "Knee walls" require additional insulation too • Insulate around your water heater to maximize efficiency 9 Adjust Water Heaters to 120 Degrees At this heat, you can reduce carbon emissions by 1,200 POUNDS ANNUALLY FOR ELECTRIC UNITS 120 POUNDS ANNUALLY 880 FOR GAS HEATERS 10) Think Outside the Power Company Pursuing sources of alternative energy can yield considerable savings. A renewable source such as solar can be a welcomed addition to your energy mix. Make sure that the initial capital output is offset by enough savings over time, and that the installation of any equipment doesn't violate your community standards. Going green is good for your community - and for the planet. For more information on how your community association management company can help, contact FirstService Residential, North America's leading property management company. FirstService RESIDENTIAL