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Sustainability -- Information for Homeowners
We all care about our environment and want to do what we can
to take care of it, but with the busy lives we lead, that isn't always as
easy as we might like. Nonetheless, there are things you can do and
changes you can make that are affordable, easy, and good for the
environment no matter how busy you are.
This page will be an ongoing resource to help you make those
choices, with information and tips that you can readily incorporate so you
can start making a difference today.
LATEST TIPS
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Give the gift of charity. If you're feeling the stress and pressure
of getting the right gifts for everyone this year, why not consider
charitable donations instead? Making a donation on behalf of someone you
love is not only a great gift they can appreciate (without risk of getting
them something they don't want or need), it has the added benefit of
taking the stress out of holiday shopping. There are no lines to stand in,
no overflowing parking lots to navigate, no last-minute gifts to wrap.
Most charities make it as easy as possible by allowing you to make an
online contribution. You're less likely to overspend, as well, and
choosing a charity to match your loved one's interests or causes can make
your donation all the more meaningful. This time of year is when most
charities need your help, especially in our current economy, as charitable
donations are down even as need has increased greatly. And by choosing
charitable donation in lieu of a gift, you're saving valuable resources of
all kinds...including wrapping paper!
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DIY Green Projects. Looking for some simple ways to make the house
and yard a little greener that don't take a lot of time or skill? Or maybe
even a project you can do with the kids to teach them something valuable
AND eco-friendly? Here's a list of
65 Super Simple Green Projects for you and the whole family --
including the dog!
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Green grilling. Summertime is BBQ season for many of us, and who
doesn't love the smoky flavor the grill imparts to hamburgers, ears of
corn, and kebobs of garden-fresh veggies? But if you're using
traditional charcoal to grill up your dinner, beware: most
commercially-available charcoal is a funky amalgamation of things like
sawdust, corn starch and lighter fluid. When it's burned, it can result in
105 times more carbon monoxide than burning propane and lots of harmful
volatile organic compounds...and who wants that in their burger?
Instead, opt for all-natural chunk charcoal, which you can find at most
organic grocery stores (and is becoming more widely available at other
outlets, as well). Brands such as
Lazzari Natural Mesquite Lump Charcoal and
Wicked Good Charcoal will
impart all the smoky flavor you crave without those nasty extras you don't
want.
And skip that lighter fluid, while you're at it. Instead try a
chimney starter
to get your coals going...it's all natural and works better anyway. (You
can buy a chimney starter or
make your
own.)
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PlanetGreen has
a good summary about the federal tax breaks. And
visit the
Energy Trust website for the rundown on state incentives
available.
Sustainability ·
Sustainability ARCHIVE
Homeowners ·
Communities ·
Developers |
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