Reducing the Fuel Economy

As we’re all aware fuel prices have gone through the roof. It’s important to know what our fuel economy is in order to save ourselves money, energy and the environment.

First and foremost, the biggest being dependence on oil.  Over half the oil we currently use in the U.S. is imported.  Congress has recently passed legislation to decrease dependence on oil by increasing standards on new cars and trucks to 35 MPG by the year 2020, thereby reducing petroleum use by 25 billion gallons by 2030. Currently the solution to this problem lies in progress of developing creative new energy sources that replace petroleum cleanly and cost effectively. Currently, you can help reduce dependence by choosing a vehicle that uses less gasoline, driving sensibly including planning well and combining trips, and keeping your car in good shape.

Second, helping reduce the climate change. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Cars account for 26% of carbon dioxide emissions each year. It’s amazing, each gallon of gas you burn creates 20 pounds of carbon dioxide, with the average vehicle emitting about 7 tons of carbon dioxide each year.

Finally, one we all love, saving money. By choosing a vehicle that gets 30 MPG over a car that gets you 20 MPG you’ll save $610. Over a period of 5 years, that same car will have saved you approximately $3050! With that kind of savings, you’re on your way to saving up for your next car.

Improving Your Water Usage Efficiency

Conserving water is important part of living responsibly.  There are many easy ways to save water with minimal hassle.

In the kitchen: Wash clothes and dishes only when loads are full. By washing in bulk you cut down on cycles sent through the machine. It is also important to remember that most dishwashers clean more efficiently than hand washing. However, if you plan on washing dishes by hand, fill the sink full or water and wash them all at the same time.

In the bathroom:  Take showers instead of baths. Showers require much less water to complete the task. Turn the faucet off when brushing your teeth. We’ve heard this one countless times before, turning the faucet off while brushing can save up to 10 gallons of water each day.

In the yard: Pay attention to the time of day you water, and water only when you absolutely need to. If you water early in the morning or later in the evening the water has less time to evaporate becoming more effective. Remember,  if you step on the grass and it springs back, you can put off watering for a bit.  Use a commercial car wash instead of washing in your driveway. Car washes clean more efficiently and often recycle the water they use. Finally, never use the hose for a job a broom can do. Don’t clean your sidewalks and driveway with a hose. A broom will do a better job, and think of the exercise you’ll get. 

Fuel Efficient Ideas for Back To School Transportation

It’s back to school time, meaning new clothes, supplies, and time to think about transportation. While we’re all busy, there are still ways to get your child to school safely and stay green.

First, and most popular is biking. As a society trying to ward off childhood obesity, biking is a great way to get your child to school and get the exercise recommended for them. Even small children can bike to school with an adult which encourages quality time and establishes healthy habits for the future with no carbon footprint.

While declining in popularity in our society,another no carbon footprint option is good old fashioned feet to the pavement. Walking is something that’s easy, free and again, supports fighting childhood obesity. Some communities have started “walking school buses,” which promote camaraderie amongst the students. 

Buses, while they seem to be gross pollutors, actually give off less emissions per person than the average passenger car. Some school districts have even switched to Bio-diesel and Hybrid busing options.

Last but certainly not least, is carpooling.While still a good option for some, others tend to stay away based on horror stories of late arrivals and messy riders. In the end it’s up to you to do what’s right for you, and keep your carbon footprint small.

Indoor Air Quality

Current news reports often focus on the quality of air outside the home, stating it’s harmful to spend extra time outdoors, but what about the quality of air inside? The EPA lists indoor air pollution as one of the top five risks to environmental health. Because Americans spend so much time indoors at work, school or home, air quality can be a major factor in the quality of life we are enjoying.

Sources of indoor pollutants in the home are fairly common-place, including pets, fireplaces, leaks, and fumes from cleaners.

Most Americans live with poor air quality in their homes because they don’t recognize the warning signs or focus on the problem. Some signs that you might have an indoor air quality problem include chemical or musty odors, allergic reactions or health symptoms including headaches, nausea and even triggering asthma.

To avoid poor indoor air quality at home, here’s a few simple tips:  Turn on fans when cooking to help fumes escape. Turn on exhaust fans when showering to limit moisture build up causing mold, clean your house regularly to prevent dust, dirt and pet hair build up. A clean house is a healthy house. However, it’s important to remember to use cleaning products that do not emit chemicals into the air. Finally, make sure to open windows to allow fresh air inside the house. Air flow helps move stale air out and new air in cleaning the space and ridding your house of indoor pollutants.