Many resources are readily available to help us live cheaper, more environmentally friendly lives. Some of these you may have heard of already, but hopefully we have some new ideas.

T r a n s p o r t a t i o n

• Ride a bicycle to work at least two times a week
• Use biodiesel for your diesel engine. Learn about biodiesel here.
• Use public transportation or carpool at least two times a week
• Telecommute for work at least once a week
• Live or move close to work to reduce the need for a car
• Shop at stores within biking or walking distance
• Keep vehicles tuned up and tires properly inflated to increase fuel economy up to 7%
• Combine trips to minimize time spent driving
• Turn off the car while waiting; don't idle more than two minutes

E n e r g y C o n s e r v a t i o n

• When at home turn thermostat down 3 degrees in winter and up 3 degrees in summer--you will save 3% of your electric bill per degree you turn down
• Use a swamp cooler or ceiling fans in the summer rather than central air conditioning
• Turn off lights and electrical appliances when not in use; unplug unnecessary appliances when away for trips (e.g., microwaves, stereos, computers, etc.)
• In the summer months, run the dishwasher while away; in the winter months, run it while you are home

R e d u c e , R e u s e , R e c y c l e

• Use city recycle bins
• Reuse plastic bags, containers, and clothing instead of purchasing new
• Compost food and yard waste into valuable, natural fertilizer
• Purchase food and other items in bulk
• Stop junk mail by adding your name to a do-not-mail list. Click here for more info.
• Take reusable items to a local charitable organization or thrift shop
• Ask businesses if you can return grocery bags, egg cartons, hangers and plastic plant containers
• Sell unwanted items at a yard sale instead of throwing them away
• Buy a used car instead of a new car

W a t e r

• Water lawns less frequently and only during the coolest time of the day, usually between 6 pm and 10 am
• Turn the faucet off while washing hands, brushing teeth, and shaving
• Only run the clothes washer and dishwasher when full
• Generously mulch plants to hold in moisture and conserve water
• Turn water heater down a notch for everyday use; turn it all the way down while out of town

Information provided with permission from the Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office, www.slcgreen.com