Tips

What You Can Do to Reduce Toxic Pollution

Conserve Energy

• Conserve energy and participate in your local utility's energy conservation programs.
• Use compact fluorescent bulbs. They give off the same amount of light as traditional light bulbs, but use less energy and last longer.
• Use the yellow Energy Guide label when buying appliances. Choosing high-efficiency appliances will reduce your bill and cut utility plant emissions.
• Run dishwashers and clothes washers with full loads.

Your Car

• Limit driving by carpooling, using mass transit, biking and walking.
• Combine errands for fewer trips.
• Keep your car well-tuned and maintained.
• Keep correct tire pressures and wheel alignment.
• Avoid long periods of idling your car.
• Buy a car that has good gas mileage.
• Use gas stations that have special vapor recovery nozzles.
• Be careful not to spill gas when filling up your car.

In the Yard

• Avoid using lighter fluid when barbecuing.
• Reduce pesticide use by reading and following label instructions carefully.
• Use biological and mechanical pest controls instead of chemicals. For example, try substituting a mixture of ground-up garlic and onions as a pesticide alternative for vegetable gardens.
• Use electric, battery or hand-powered lawn care equipment.
• Be careful not to spill gas when filling up your lawn and garden equipment.

Around the House

• Choose water-based latex paints for your home. Oil-based paints and varnishes contain solvents that pollute the air.
• Choose environmentally friendly cleaners. Use water-based cleaners instead of those high in volatile organic compounds.
• Seal containers of household cleaners, workshop chemicals and solvents, and garden chemicals to prevent volatile organic compounds from evaporating into the air.
• Switch from chemical-type household cleaners to natural products like soap and water. A vinegar and water mixture works well as a window cleaner.