info@gogreenwilmette.org
PO Box 954 Wilmette, IL

Green Tips 101: You Can Make a Difference

Change light bulbs: Replace incandescent lights bulbs with compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs. Don't wait for old bulbs to burn out. Make this change today. Dispose of old CFL bulbs properly by recycling them (or saving them until recycling programs exist.)

Drive less, drive smart: Drive a fuel-efficient car, keep tires inflated, carpool and reduce your speed. Don't idle while waiting. Walk, bike or use public transportation instead. Support funding for mass transit. Be mindful of how far the things you buy have been transported.

Reduce your home's heating/cooling needs: Use a programmable thermostat, turn the temperature down two degrees in the winter, up two in the summer. Use proper insulation. Use fuel-efficient furnaces and air conditioners. Keep filters clean or replace them.

Reduce your water use: Use less water in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room and yard. Use plants that are drought tolerant. Don't water your yard.

Buy energy efficient electronics and appliances: Replace old ones now with Energy Star models. See if you can get by without that second refrigerator or freezer. Review your electric and gas bills and try to reduce them.

Turn off electric devices: Unplug appliances when not in use, including chargers. Plug music and audio visual electronics in to power strips that can be easily switched off. Buy locally and/or organically grown food: Be aware of how far your food travels to your table and how it is grown. Use a tote bag. Eat low on the food chain.

Plant a tree: Maintain a green lawn and garden with native plants. Reduce your use of chemicals and gas-powered machines. Be sure to discuss this with your yard service.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle: Cut back on consumption. Encourage recycling in your home, at your office and at businesses and restaurants you patronize. Buy recycled products. Compost your yard waste. Be an environmentally-mindful consumer.

Be part of the solution: Take action today. Inspire others. Raise children who care about the earth. Join and support environmental groups, both national and local. Join or start an environmental group in your town.