Maintenance Type Actions

The Clean Air Campaign has compiled a list of 10 things you can do to help clear the air. Each is an easy way to save money and reduce pollutants released into the air.

1. Combine errands – Take that handful of small trips and create a one-trip adventure.

2. Change your light bulbs – Here is a bright idea: Replace regular light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.

3. Keep your car in shape – Get regular tune-ups, keep the tires properly inflated and change the air filter for better gas mileage.

4. Buy cleaner and greener – Energy Star® appliances use less energy and save money. Learn more about these and other air-friendly products at greenerchoices.org.

5. Play in the dirt – Add a twist to your exercise regimen and ditch the gaspowered mower for a push model or replace the leaf blower with a rake.

6 . Take an air-friendly outing – Eliminate the hassle of traffic and parking for periodic trips to concerts and sporting events; transit can be fast and inexpensive.

7. Don’t idle – Walk inside the restaurant instead of using the drive-thru or turn off your car while you wait to pick up the kids at school.

8. Take a bike ride or walk – Replace short car trips with another great way to invigorate your exercise routine and keep pollutants out of the air.

9. Let someone else do the driving – Carpool or vanpool and save money and wear and tear on your car. Call 1-877-433-3463 to find a carpool partner or a vanpool in your area. Share the ride.

10. Skip the drive entirely – Teleworking one or two days a week can save an average of 72 hours each year, not to mention hundreds of dollars. Chances are you’ll be more productive too.

More ideas:

• Schedule conference calls instead of face-to-face meetings.
• Bring your lunch rather than driving to a restaurant.
• Change to flex hours to commute during lower traffic times.
• Use tools that are manual, rather than gas-powered.
• Turn up (or down) your thermostat a few degrees.
• Operate motorized equipment later in the day versus in the heat of the afternoon.
• Delay maintenance of yard machinery.

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