13 Simple Steps to Reducing Your Carbon Footprint 
9. Recycle |
10. Use water wisely |
11. Eat green |
12. Landscape green |
13. Get involved |
1. Calculate your carbon footprint
Measure your carbon footprint with Zerofootprint Evanston -
Decide what steps you can take to reduce your footprint.
2. Lighten up and power off
Use energy-efficient compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). Each one uses 75% less energy than incandescent, and will save about $30 over its lifetime. To locate area retailers that offer ongoing discounts on CFLs, check ComEd's Smart Ideas Lighting Program website. Remember to recycle your CFLs after use.
When replacing appliances, choose Energy Star appliances.
Lower water heater temperature to 120 degrees.
Turn off appliances that have ‘stand-by’ settings, Using power strips makes it easier.
Use a microwave or toaster oven rather than stove or full-size oven, when possible.
3. Manage your thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat.
Dial down the setting in winter. Every degree lower = 3% reduction in heating used.
Dial up the setting in summer. Ceiling fans can help keep you comfortable in the heat.
4. Caulk and seal
Identify and seal air leaks in your home (around doors, windows, ducts).
Add insulation. It’s one of the most cost-effective investments you can make.
Use window shades to block the heat of the summer sun.
5. Check out ComEd’s ‘Smart Ideas’ money-saving programs
Real-time Pricing - Save money by signing up to take advantage of market rates for electricity.
Central AC Cycling – The program allows your AC compressor to cycle on and off on the hottest days of summer.
Central Air Conditioning Efficiency Services - Improve the efficiency of your home's central air conditioning system and save you money on your electricity bill.
Appliance recycling – Call ComEd at 1-888-806-2273 to see if you qualify for free pick-up and recycling of your old refrigerator or freezer.
6. Drive less, drive smart
Keep your tires properly inflated. When you do, gas mileage can improve by more than 3%.
Consolidate trips, and group errands to reduce ‘zig-zag.’
Substitute walking, biking, or public transportation for driving whenever possible.
Join a car-share program, e.g. I-Go, Zipcar.
7. Fly less, and offset the trips you do take
When you fly, go economy and choose a non-stop flight.
Compensate for your air travel with a contribution to the Climate Action Fund.
8. Reduce, reuse and...
Always use reusable bags for shopping.
Buy what you need and get by with less.
9. Recycle
Recycle more, and properly. Check the recycling section of the City's web site for guidelines and drop-off programs and use the City's printable recycling guide as an at-home reminder. Remember to check back occasionally for updates and changes.
10. Use water wisely
Fix dripping faucets and ‘running’ toilets.
Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth.
Look for EPA’s WaterSense label when replacing fixtures.
Install low-flow showerheads and faucets.
Take showers rather than baths.
Replace old toilets with low-flow or dual-flush models.
Water your yard at dawn or after dusk for maximum benefit. City code restricts watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. from May 15 through September 15.
11. Eat green
What you eat matters at least as much as how far it travels. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, livestock account for 18% of all greenhouse gas emissions — more than all forms of fossil fuel-based transport combined.
Eat less meat and more veggies.
Buy local, e.g., The Talking Farm, Evanston Farmers Market, West End Market, Ridgeville Farmers Market.
Avoid air-freighted and hothouse-grown foods.
12. Landscape green
Introduce native plants in your garden. Visit or call the Evanston Ecology Center for information and resources.
Install a rain barrel. Visit the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District to purchase rain barrels at a reduced rate.
Install permeable paving when you redo your driveway or walkways.
13. Get involved
Learn what the Citizens for a Greener Evanston are doing to reduce Evanston’s greenhouse gas emissions 13% by 2012.
Read the Evanston Climate Action Plan (ECAP).
Find more tips and resources at the City's Office of Sustainability.