Discovery
Going Green, Saving Green

Your guide to family events, stories and news in Western Wisconsin.
The warm weather is coming, and that means more time outside, more time traveling, and more time with our air conditioning on. Follow these three easy ways to reduce your waste, spending, and impact on our environment, so you can enjoy a truly “green” spring and summer!
To save energy and reduce your utility bill, unplug any unused appliances and electronics and turn the thermostat up your air conditioning. (Or turn the A.C. off entirely and try opening up the windows on a breezy day.)
Another way to reduce your energy consumption is to spend more time outdoors. Create a scavenger hunt for the kiddos, explore a new nature trail, or read a book and soak up some sun!
To save gas and reduce your carbon footprint, try not to idle your car. Accelerating slowly and staying at the speed limit can greatly reduce how much fuel you use. And if you can, take a look at the world from a different view, and try walking or biking to your destination. It’s great for you and for the environment!
To save money on food, eat lower on the food chain. A lot of resources are needed in animal agriculture and to create animal products, which means the carbon footprint for those foods is higher. In the Chippewa Valley, farmers markets supply tons of local plant-based foods at great prices, and they usually have some beautiful flowers to brighten up your home!
Farmers markets can also help reduce the amount of waste you produce, and most waste from the market is compostable. Look into buying or making a compost bin.
You can use the above tips anytime, but for more long-term/year-round reductions on the environment try these tips:
I hope that using these tips helps you enjoy the new season. By working together and taking our own small steps, we can help create a world that we can all enjoy for years to come, all while saving a few dollars!
Sarah McInnis is director of play experience at the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, a community partner of Chippewa Valley Family.
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