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Ten Things You Can Do

What if changing a light bulb could change the world?

We can work as hard as possible at more sustainable practices in everything from policy to municipal buildings, but the defining expression of our water, waste, and energy give and take presence on this planet lies in our homes, within our families, and in our daily lives.

For example, today, 17% of all energy used in Canada goes toward running our homes. Alberta's homes generate 3% of the province's greenhouse gas emissions – but they also drive demand for electricity (22% of emissions) and transportation (14% of emissions). In Okotoks, residences consume 87% of our water supply and generate 100% of the waste stream collected by the Town. What we personally choose to do to tread a bit more lightly is central to the success of Sustainable Okotoks.

Let's start small. Make some lifestyle modifications. Invest in products or technology that save you money long-term. Sustain the momentum by challenging yourself and others to add to success. From evolution are sewn the seeds of change….and progress. It all begins by changing a light bulb. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a first step.

There are an imaginative range of actions you and your household can take. Here's 10 practical, affordable actions you can take with good return on investment in terms of cost savings and solid greenhouse gas emissions reductions.
 
1. Use water responsibly, it is our most precious resource.
  • Consider capturing rain water for non-potable use whenever possible (rainbarrel)
  • Install low flow showerheads and tap aerators in your home
  • Fix all toilet and tap leaks
  • Ecoscape your yard to reduce summer watering (drought resistant plants, trees, shrubs etc.)

2. Minimize waste bound for the landfill, recycle and compost your waste whenever possible.

  • Recycle at a minimum 50% of your home's waste
  • Employ the 'Four R's': Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle! 
3. Ensure efficient use of energy whether electricity, natural gas and renewable energy sources.
  • Check your home for any leaks and if possible upgrade your home's mechanical systems, appliances, doors and windows to EnergyStar approved products.
  • Install a programmable thermostat
  • Use a power bar to turn off your electronics.
  • Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs

4. Power of the consumer

  • Use your buying power to support environmentally sensitive companies, businesses and products. Purchase locally whenever possible. When shopping buy products that have a high percent of recycled content and utilizes little packaging.
  • Buy locally to support the agricultural industry, local businesses and to reduce transportation needs.
5. Changes in your own backyard. 
  • Try to deal with all of your waste in your own backyard first through composting, grass-cycling and mulching with your chipped branches.
  • If you can afford it, install a solar collector on your roof or a geo-thermal system in your yard for your hot water or space heating needs.
  • Grow your own vegetable and herb garden.
6. Drive an energy efficient vehicle
  • Consider the product life-cycle and environmental impact of your vehicle, usually a small compact car is your most economical and environmental option.
7. Alternatives to the car  
  • Utilize public transportation, active transportation (walking, cycling etc.) and car pooling options.
8. Consider supplying all or some of your energy needs with renewable energy sources.
  • Either purchase renewable energies or retrofit your home to produce your own (solar, wind, geothermal, biodeisel etc.)  

9. Support the protection and rehabilitation on our environmentally sensitive areas, riparian zones and wildlife habitats.  

10. Consider the impact idling has on climate change and your air quality. Don't idle your vehicle.