My Plan to Go Green
Every change you make counts!
You can use this simple check list to create your personal plan or print a plan document. If you like detail and want to know more about what most affects CO2 emissions you can calculate your own carbon footprint. Click for a PDF version of MyGreenPlan to print.
Did it | Planning to do it | |
Energy Efficiency | ||
Get a No-Cost energy assessment – 866-867-8729 or visit www.nextsteplivinginc.com/carlisle | ||
Install an energy monitor | ||
Replace incandescent light bulbs with CFLs or LEDs | ||
Turn unused lights off | ||
Plug TV’s, computers and other “leaking” products into smart power strips | ||
Use air dry dishwasher setting | ||
Hang wash out to dry | ||
Use cold water for laundry washing | ||
Wash sheets and clothes less often | ||
Set the hot water heater thermostat to 120 or less | ||
Install solar hot water system | ||
Install a programmable thermostat | ||
Set the winter night time temp to 55-58 | ||
Set the daytime (when you are home) temp to 65-68 | ||
Regular furnace tune up | ||
Maximize weather stripping | ||
Maximize insulation | ||
Minimize use of air conditioning | ||
Set the summer night time temp to 68-70 | ||
Water Efficiency | ||
Install low-flow showerheads (1.0 – 1.5 GPM) | ||
Install aerators for faucets (0.38 – 0.5 GPM) | ||
Install low-flow toilets (0.8 – 1.28 GPF) | ||
Take shorter showers | ||
Take fewer baths | ||
Full Loads for Dishwasher and Washing Machine | ||
Install a Rain Barrel | ||
Plant drought resistant plants | ||
Water so roots grow deep preventing disease and pests | ||
Install drip irrigation | ||
Water lawn at night or early morning | ||
Food Sourcing | ||
Limit red meat consumption | ||
Buy local (Carlisle Farmers Market and local food at the grocery store) | ||
Grow my own | ||
Buy organic | ||
Recycle | ||
Reduce Solid Waste | ||
Compost | ||
Use Reusable Grocery Bags | ||
Stop Junk Mail | ||
Household Products | ||
Use white vinegar as a cleaner | ||
Use biodegradable detergents and cleaners | ||
Use compostable disposable products | ||
Purchase products made from recycled or sustainable materials | ||
Landscaping | ||
Compost | ||
Plant drought resistant grasses (fescues, big bluestem, Canadian bluegrass & timothy) | ||
Use organic fertilizer instead of chemical fertilizers to encourage deep root growth | ||
Use milky spore instead of pesticides for grub control for pet health and honeybee health | ||
Plant clover and sustainable grasses | ||
Transportation | ||
Keep the car tuned | ||
Own a low mileage car | ||
Minimize car trips | ||
Keep tires properly inflated | ||
Drive the speed limit | ||
Don’t carry extra weight | ||
Offset My Carbon Footprint | ||
Purchase green power from NSTAR | ||
Plant Trees | ||
Purchase carbon credits when I fly | ||
Purchase carbon credits when I take the train |