Who wants a fabulous new market bag? Apparently throngs on the East Coast do. I’d love one of those, but my Frida bag fits the bill. Not only does this bag keep me from bringing home a ton of plastic ones, but I know that when it is full — it is time to leave the market. If I buy more than one bag, I end up throwing out produce at the end of the week because I couldn’t get to everything in time.
Frida and I have a weekly date at the market by my house. The clerks roll their eyes when they see me coming. Yet, more and more people are following the trend, so I guess they’ll just have to be more patient. This size reminds me to consume only what I must, which I think one of the most important principles of being good to the earth.
A few other photos from my home, simple ways I’m trying to use less:
Appliances unplugged when not in use.
Drying my clothes on a clothing line and rack, rather than in a dryer. This has a double benefit this time of year because the dryer really heats up my laundry room. There might be a problem with my dryer. I don’t think it should be this hot. Perhaps I should contact a service provider who can do Dryer Repair and ask them to fix the issue. That way, it may also end up not consuming so much energy as it does now!
Thankfully, ceiling fans help keep my air conditioning bill manageable. The key is to use these only when you are home. More great tips here. But in case you do not have any ceiling fans, and keep your house ventilated/cooled through central or ductless air conditioning systems, then worry not. You can still do your part to reduce energy consumption. Make sure that your systems are well maintained and functioning at their most optimal, install temperature regulators so you can up or down the temp as you need; all this with help from trusted heating and cooling companies in Denver (or wherever you live) who may be able to guide you on what else can be done to optimize energy use, and be well on your way to making a difference!
I recycle everything I can.
I always have one of these with me. If I am out and can refill one of these, rather than take a disposable cup, I do. Every bit helps. I think bottled water is pretty ridiculous; my parents own an RO water company and I’m spoiled with tasty tap water that’s been filtered. Tap water rocks.
What do you do to consume less?
~K