According to a recent article in the Chicago Tribune, 77% percent of Chicago residents make daily choices to protect the environment. City-wide, efforts in recycling and shopping patterns have made a difference. Awareness campaigns and the availability of better choices, from organic produce growers to incentives for “greener” vehicles and appliances have contributed to the increase in concern over the environment.
The National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. has compiled the following list of ten tips to help homeowners “go green”.
- Lower your thermostat.
- Use ceiling fans year-round to cool and surprisingly enough heat rooms.
- Invest in energy-saving appliances.
- Make repairs to leaky pipes and fixtures.
- Install low-flow showerheads and toilets.
- Look for natural toxin-free fibers when choosing carpet and curtains.
- Consider renewable resources such as bamboo in flooring.
- Use real wood in your cabinetry.
- Make wise eco-friendly furniture choices by thinking about how the item might be recycled/reused in the future.
- Recycle packaging and make sure hazardous materials, such as batteries and paint cans are disposed of properly, and do not lead to contamination.
