Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/10148
LIVEMAGS.NET MAY>>10 37 Green Up Your Home Life By>>Tova Morrison C arbon, the main element of life on Earth, is a contributor to global warming. Anytime fossil fuels are burned, it releases carbon when their molecular bonds are broken. This release creates carbon dioxide as carbon joins with oxygen. As we keep burning fuel, carbon dioxide heats up the environment, bringing about climate change, pollution and ecological imbalance. To protect our environment from more harm, we need to shift into a green consciousness by using less energy: Break the habit of breaking carbon bonds. There are many ways to reduce energy consumption in the home and balance these archetypal elements. Consider these easy steps to help create a more sustainable future. FIRE: Save Energy and Power! Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs. The helix-shaped CFLs get brighter the longer they are turned on, and they use one third the power. Skylights are also effective in producing bright light in the daytime, and even at night during a full moon! When buying and upgrading to new appliances, purchase Energy Star labeled items because they are made to be highly efficient — they use about one forth the amount of juice non-Energy Star appliances use. This also translates into end-of-the month savings on utility bills. Energy Star appliances on the market include dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, refrigerators and computers. Saving energy is also as simple as unplugging electronic devices when they are fully charged and not in use. Plugged-in electronics suck juice from outlets, even in the power-off position. Southern California is the best place in the nation for solar energy to power photovoltaic modules, or solar electric systems. Because the sun's rays imbue this region with the highest concentration of energy in the U.S., this is a heaven sent power source (literally) for homeowners. In addition, the government has set in place tax credits for homeowners who build custom solar systems. How does 'No electricity bills' sound? You can even install a meter that flows the system's excess energy into the grid. Then, the utility company pays you! EARTH: Reduce waste! New parents can use a diaper service or buy reusable cloth diapers (I wouldn't preach it if I didn't do this myself with my baby). Disposable diapers, like plastic bags, are detrimental for the earth: they don't go away. Stop buying plastic bags or reuse them; wax paper baggies and durable containers are practical replacements. There are also 100% biodegradable corn Biobags, which look and feel like silky plastic. Whenever possible bring your own tote to the grocery store. Support local organic farmers by eating produce from farmers' markets. Certified Organic products and produce are the healthiest because toxic pesticides are not used. Xeriscaping is a landscaping method that uses less water through indigenous and drought tolerant plants. The Long Beach Water Department is now giving out grants to residents who replace grass lawns with xeriscaped yards. Recycle! Paper, cardboard, cans, glass, plastic, and this magazine after you have passed it around to your friends, relatives and favorite co-workers. AIR: Insulate, Bike and Walk! Cover the base of doors that open to the outside with an insulation pillow to keep the warmth inside during cold weather. Make sure your windows are sealed; or use caulk, to halt the outpouring of warmth from heating or air conditioned cool air. There are also 100% biodegradable corn Biobags, which look and feel like silky plastic. Whenever possible bring your own tote to the grocery store. As the summer months unfold, take out your bike, skateboard or walk to places more often to save on gas. And when you are in the market for a new car, consider buying a hybrid vehicle.