Eco Friendly Tips for Summer by DK

Time to break out the tank tops and flip flops!  Summer is right around the corner.  Hopefully a lot of your time will be spent outdoors enjoying nature; thus allowing you to appreciate the benefits of a healthy planet. Try some of these green tips while you’re enjoying the warmer weather!

Propane or Charcoal?

One of our favorite past times during the summer is barbequing. As we host Fourth of July parties or head to the lake, let’s make sure we remember the “no mess behind” rule.  As far as grilling goes, which is the more eco-friendly option, propane or charcoal?  The answer is propane, according to a study revealed by Elsevier’s Environmental Impact Assessment Review.  Apparently, charcoal produces three times the amount of greenhouse gases than propane.  Every possible avenue was included in the assessment, from transporting the propane tanks in trucks, to how long it takes the coals to heat up, and the results show a charcoal cookout will create 15 pounds of carbon compared to only 5 pounds for propane.

Beating the Heat

We all know the most convenient thing to do when you’re at home and uncomfortably hot is turn on the air conditioner, BUT the A/C is a monstrous environmental menace.  While the A/C does offer a temporary relief from the heat, it burns up major fossil fuels. Here are a few tips to avoid the constant use of the air conditioner this season.

- Drapes – Purchase special weather insulating drapes. The’yre thick and do a good job of reflecting the hot sun away from your abode.

- Ceiling Fans – A ceiling fan can make a room 6 or 7 degrees cooler.  They are less energy intensive, using 1/30^th output of A/C units, and can really make a difference.

- Trees and Shrubs - When located in the shade, your A/C unit will operate off less electricity.  So, plant some foliage near the unit to provide some shade.

- Avoid Hot Appliances – If possible, avoid cooking during the day.  Turn off all appliances to get rid of emanating heat.

Bugs Be Gone

Mosquitos are most abundant during the summer.  These annoying pests can cause bumps, itchiness, and in some cases, serious illness.  The widespread prevention method for approximately one third of Americans is to use bug repellent.  However, there are healthier alternatives.  The Center for Disease Control acknowledges that lemon-eucalyptus oil is an effective alternative to bug spray. After it is generously applied, it can repel mosquitoes and bugs for up to 6 hours. Cinnamon Oil is also a healthy second option.

So as you are enjoying the summer, keep these eco friendly tips in mind!

info from http://begreen.botw.org

Share This