At Home

Volunteering on Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be an all-day affair.  All of the following ideas can be done in just a few hours, so that you’re back in time to eat turkey with the fam.  And watch NFL…and maybe see Life of Pi…and take a nap. If you couldn't tell, we’re pretty psyched for Turkey Day ourselves. :)

Everyone can make a difference. Whether it is recycling or cutting showers short, everyone has the power to help put an end to global warming. So what are you waiting for? Here are some ways you can help our planet.

Use Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. By using three CFBs, you will save 300 pounds of carbon dioxide and $60 a year.

Fill the Dishwasher

You don’t have to run your dishwasher every time you eat. By filling it completely, you can save $40 and 100 lbs. of CO2 emission a year.

Vampire energy refers to electricity that is drained from the outlet even when electronics are not in use. Follow these simple tips to save energy (and some money on the electric bill).

Unplug After Use

Once-a-day things should be unplugged after they are used.

• electric can-openers
• curling irons
• hair dryers

Unplug Once Charged

So many things run on battery. There's no need to keep it plugged in the wall once you've left the house.

A rain garden refers to a planted area that receives water runoff from urban areas like parking lots, walkways, driveways, etc. The water from the area goes into the ground and feeds the plants as opposed to flooding storm drains.

Start a rain garden to encourage water conservation and sustainability in your community space.

Buy ENERGY STAR appliances—they're certified to use less energy.

ENERGY STAR is the trusted, government-backed symbol for energy efficiency helping us all save money and protect the climate through energy-efficient products and practices. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency decides which products will earn the symbol.

When you shop for appliances, electronics, home office equipment, lighting, and more, look for the ENERGY STAR symbol to save energy and money.

Sometimes people won't recycle because they simply don't see the bin or they don't know what goes in it. Encourage proper recycling by painting bins to make the process easier.

Walk, bike, carpool, or take mass transit; you save money on gas and don't have to worry about being frustrated in traffic. Plus you'll save one pound of CO2 for every mile you don't drive! It's a win-win for you and the environment.

When your computer is so hot it burns your legs, it's time to let the poor thing take a rest. Turn it off or put it in sleep mode. Either will let it cool down and conserve energy.

You might think you'll be right back when you leave your room with the lights, computer, and fan on, but who knows what kind of distractions are waiting outside your door? If you get sucked into a movie marathon with your sister you could forget all about the energy the lights and other electronics in your room are using. Even if you're positive you'll BRB, flick the switch. It's easy enough to turn back on.