Tips on Going GREEN

By Lynda Ellis, Capitol Concierge

Environmental stewardship and sustainability are essential elements of Capitol Concierge’s culture and our vision for the company’s future. We understand that we have a direct impact on the well-being of our society and ecology. Join us in the race to make the world a better place by taking proactive steps to improve your environmentally friendly processes.

Here are some simple ways to get you started:

• Shop at your local farmer’s market

• Support local restaurants that use food —delivery less than 100 miles away, and learn more about the benefits of eating locally

• Repurpose items such as egg cartons for paint wells, seed starters, treasure boxes, or a myriad of other crafts

• Ditch the paper cups and plates—instead of using paper cups for your morning coffee, switch to coffee mugs, that can be washed and reused—same goes for plates

• Subscribe to eco-friendly blogs for tips and ideas

• Donate to and shop at thrift stores such as GreenDrop and the Salvation Army. You’ll be recycling usable items and supporting your local economy!

• Stop idling in your car—idling for more than 10 seconds wastes more gas than is needed for a startup 

• Consider purchasing an energy-efficient vehicle

• Inflate your tires—tires with more air improves gas mileage on your car

• Telecommute when possible

• Utilize the abundance of public transportation

• Instead of making the drive into work or flying to that meeting, complete your work electronically and send it in, or set up a video conference

• Sign up for Green Energy—more than half of all electricity consumers in the U.S. now have the option of purchasing green power from their utility. 

• Install solar panels to reduce the cost of your energy and help the environment

• Switch one home appliance to an energy efficient model, just look for the “energy star” label

• Cover all your hot water pipes from your heaters with ‘water heating jackets’

• Lower your thermostat—for every degree you lower the thermostat you’ll save between 1 and 3% of your heating bill!

• Replace your water heater—new tankless water heaters significantly lower the energy burden

• Decorate your home and office with live plants if you want the air to be extra clean

• Plant a tree—it’s good for the air, can keep you cool, and can increase your property value

• Water the lawn or garden during the coolest part of the day (early morning is best), and water plants differently according to what they need — check with your local extension service or nurseries for advice

Stay committed to the changes you make — going green is only possible if everyone contributes!