Eight Ways Cleveland Can Contribute to a Healthier Planet in '08

1. Give your goods a second chance: Did you know that old appliances, books, paint, eyeglasses, cell phones and even athletic shoes can be reused? Feel good about passing on old items to those in need and preventing them from ending up in a landfill. Find out how and where to donate goods by visiting cuyahogaswd.org/pdf/PassItOn.pdf.

2. Properly dispose of compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs): CFLs are becoming more popular because of their energy efficiency and long life. While these bulbs are environmentally preferable to incandescent bulbs, they cannot be thrown away in regular trash receptacles, because they contain a trace of mercury. Therefore, they should be brought to household hazardous waste round-up events until more convenient options can be developed. To find round-up events near you, visit your county's solid waste district website.

3. Use green cleaning products: Some of the most commonly used cleaning products are also among the most toxic products found in the home. These products not only can lead to skin irritation, watery eyes and chemical burns, but they also can harm the environment. A few safe, simple ingredients - baking soda, soap, vinegar and borax - accompanied by some elbow grease, can take care of most common cleaning needs. Also consider switching to microfiber cloths instead of paper towels, and you'll save money on lots of unnecessary products.

4. Say no to grocery bags: Plastic grocery bags are only used for minutes - from the time you leave the store to the time you get home. And only 0.6 percent of all plastic bags are recycled. Therefore, consider bringing bags with you to the store or purchasing a few reusable bags the next time you're there.

5. Conserve water: By simply turning off the water when you brush your teeth, you can save 4 gallons of water a day. If all 35,000 employees did this simple task, we would save enough water to fill a football field 133 feet high! Also, consider conserving more water by limiting your daily shower to five minutes. Water conservation is especially important in Northeast Ohio because the Great Lakes watershed supply is so precious.

6. Think before you print: Did you know that the new trend in sending an email is adding a disclaimer that advises users to consider the environment before printing an email? We all should consider the environment when printing. Decide whether you really need a hard copy of the item; if you do, print double-sided.

7. Recycle: Whether at home or work, it's important to know what you can recycle. The most commonly recycled products include aluminum, plastic bottles, glass and paper. Find out if your community has a curbside or drop-off recycling program by checking your county's solid waste district website.

8. Give your car a break: Consider carpooling with a co-worker, using public transportation or riding your bike to work. Visit the RTA Commuter Advantage website, intranet.ccf.org/hr/new/compbenefits/RTA.htm