"Consumer's Guide to Effective Environmental Choices"

[sqwook]

Paper or plastic? Or what will *really* make a difference? More as a reminder to myself than anything else, from the book (1999) by the Union of Concerned Scientists, the best things to focus on

TRANSPORTATION
1. Choose a place to live that reduces the need to drive
2. Think twice before purchasing another car.
3. Choose a fuel-efficient, low-polluting car.
4. Set concrete goals for reducing your travel.
5. Whenver practical, walk, bicycle, or take public transportation.

FOOD
6. Eat less meat.
7. Buy organic produce.
 
HOUSEHOLD OPERATIONS
8. Choose your home carefully.
9. Reduce the environmental costs of heting and hot water.
10. Install efficient lighting and appliances.
11. Choose an electricity suppler offering renewable energy.

ACTVITIES TO AVOID
Powerboats
Pesticides and fertilizers
Gasoline-powered yard equipment
Fireplaces and wood stoves (unless very new and extremely efficient)
Recreational off-road driving
Hazardous cleaners and paints
Products made from endangered or threatened species

RULES FOR RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION
Give special attention to major purchases.
Become a weight watcher
Analyze your consumption quantitatively.
Don't worry or feel guilty about unimportant decisions.
Look for opportunities to be a leader.
Buy more of those things that help the environment.
Think about nonenvironmental reasons for reducing consumption.