EARTH DAY REMEDIES

EARTH DAY REMEDIES

In recognition of Earth Day let's think of ways we can make an impact (or less of an impact) on our planet. Here are a few of my personal favorite, tried-and-true, tips and techniques:

1. REUSE YOUR WATER BOTTLE, DON'T USE PLASTIC
I’ve used the same SIGG for years and it’s never failed me.  For a $20 investment, I'd say I've definitely received my money's worth.  I love how easy it slides into the water cage on my bike, or the front pocket of my backpack for hiking trips or just walking around town.  Extruded from a single piece of aluminum makes it 100% effective against leaching and combats residue build-up.  Leave it sitting in the sun as long as you like, it's perfectly safe to do so!  Hundreds of styles to choose from!
available at your local eco-conscious market or just click here.

2.  RIDE YOUR BIKE
Whether it be to the corner market for cat food, or through endless rolling hills of vineyards.  It's fun, it's healthy, it's good for the planet,  just do it!

 
(me enjoying the view from my bike, Napa Valley CA, November 2008)

3. BRING YOUR OWN BAGS
As featured on Oprah:  these cool eco-friendly totes compact enough to keep in your desk, purse or glove compartment.  Sales of this recycled polypropylene tote benefit environmental programming for children.  Get Hip Get Green, $6 each, $25 for five; thegreenloop.com

4. COMPOST
If you consume a healthful, balanced diet, you should be able to recycle most of your food resources.  My husband and I are currently working our winter compost into our raised garden beds and we're anticipating a rich, bountiful harvest this growing season. The wonderful city of Portland sells a great composter on the cheap and year round (we use them!) at $39 per bin, that's at least a 50% savings;  www.oregonmetro.gov

5.  MAKE YOUR OWN HOUSECLEANING SUPPLIES
It's a wonder what a little vinegar, borax, essential oils and baking soda can do.  For cleaning everything from your kitchen floors to your delicates, while being completely safe for pets and babies.  Or, if you want all the benefits without the elbow grease like me, then call Rae's 1st Mate Cleaning Service!  Rae leaves my house smelling of lavender and sparkling from top to bottom and is very fast and efficient in doing so.  She also sells all of her 100% homemade, organic, nontoxic cleaning products for use in between, or in place of, her cleaning services.  Find Rae's 1st Mate Cleaning here and here and support a fantastic, local, independent business.

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