York Region Environmental Alliance To-Do List

Let’s stop worrying about the environment, climate crisis and instead do something about these by taking personal action.

The changes we all make collectively to green our choices can add up to a sizeable dent in our carbon footprint.

No need to wait until April Earth Month to make a pledge and check off as many of the boxes below as you can:

• I will read labels & choose more sustainable products certified as organic, Energy Star, FSC, Fair Trade, EcoLogo or C2C (cradle to cradle)
• I will consider borrowing, renting, repairing or buying used & refurbished instead of buying new

CLOTHING

• I will ask myself if I really NEED to buy each item I consider purchasing
• I will re-evaluate my wardrobe and avoid impulse purchases
• I will consider more sustainable fibres such as organic cotton, linen, hemp & recycled polyester
• I will first visit a consignment or second hand store the next time I need clothing
• I will recycle textiles & clothing by donating to charities or at community drop off centres

HOME

• I will get an energy audit for my home
• I will install a programmable thermostat
• I will purchase my hydro, natural gas heating from Bullfrog Power, a green energy provider
• I will convert my lighting to CFL or LED (best choice)
• I will choose zero or low VOC or natural paints to improve indoor air quality
• I will install a 3 litre low flush or dual flush toilet
• I will install a tankless or solar water heater

HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS

• I will inform myself about the toxic substances that may be in my home
• I will dispose of these at a hazardous waste facility if applicable
• I will read the labels & choose products that will not be bad for my health & home environment
• I will buy cold water unscented laundry detergent
• I will buy phosphate free dishwasher detergent
• I will use white vinegar as a window cleaner and fabric softener
• I will use baking soda as an air freshener, drain cleaner & stain remover
• I will switch from chlorine to oxygen bleach

PAPER

• I will purchase FSC paper products or paper with post-consumer recycled content
• I will reduce paper use by converting to online newspapers, paperless banking & email communication
• I will use both sides of a sheet of paper whenever possible

AVOID BUYING

• I will avoid buying bottled water, use a refillable container instead & if I have concerns about my tap water, I will install a water filtration system
• I will avoid buying single use batteries, disposing of used batteries & electronics responsibly

 

It is a learning curve so if you are interested in knowing more about some everyday items you use visit http://yrea.org/campaigns/shop-like-the-planets-watching/ on their website where you can view SHOP presentation.

LET’S ALL PARTNER FOR A GREENER PLANET