Second Nature

1. Smart shopping
   • Buy what you need, not what you want
   • Consider renting and borrowing things that are seldom needed
   • Buy used items from garage sales and second-hand stores
2. Simple savers
   • Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs
   • Use aerators on faucets and shower heads
   • Weatherstrip windows and doors
3. Transportation alternatives
   • Walk, cycle, car pool and use public transportation
   • When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure
   • Consider car sharing programs or renting
4. Food choices
   • Choose local and organic foods that are in season and support local food producer
5. Washing and drying
   • Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry
6. Heating and cooling
   • Install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats
7. Close to home
   • Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible
8. Bathroom basics
   • Take short showers instead of baths
   • Close water taps while brushing your teeth
9. Careful cleaning
   • Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products
   • Make simple, natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water
10. Don’t discard
    • Donate, reuse and recycle items before throwing them into the trash
    • Harmful materials like chemicals, batteries, electronics, etc. should be taken to local hazardous waste depots or recycler

- Jayme Mattson www.secondnatureconsulting.com