On Earth Day 2011

As Earth Day approaches on April 22, 2011, each one of us can participate and contribute to improving our planet's environment. There are several ways every community can show their support beginning with recycling, water conservation, tree planting, and adopting alternative energy consumption practices.

Recycling

Proper recycling can greatly reduce waste, pollution, and help control landfills. Remember to be conscious of what goes into the trash and use environmentally friendly products like Earth-Baby's compostable diapers. Reduce waste by stopping junk mail and avoid too much packaging. Separate the biodegradables from the non-biodegradables. Compost any food waste rather than throwing it in the trash. Locate the nearest recycling center, SMaRT center, or find out the pick up schedule at your home. Simple things you can recycle are: paper products, plastic containers, aluminum cans, glass bottles, e-waste, yard waste, old batteries, old tires, motor oil, printer cartridges, hazardous items, refrigerators, appliances, and much more! The best policy is to reduce waste and recycle, so encourage your kids, schools, and neighborhoods to adopt these habits.

Water Conservation

Our natural reservoirs are in danger of depletion due to growing demands of large metropolitans. Remember to conserve water usage whenever possible. Simple tips are to use high-efficiency washers, toilets, shower heads, and irrigation systems. Remember to water the lawn every other day and avoid watering in mid-afternoon. Check all leaky faucets and drips, as these can conserve our water resources. The cities of Palo Alto and Mountain View offer rebates and discounts for water conservation practices.

Plant Trees

Help fight deforestation by participating in tree planting activities. March 12, 2011 is Arbor Day Celebration in Mountain View 's Pioneer Memorial Park from 11 am - 1 pm. April 9, 2011 is Tree Walk at Pioneer Park and May 21, 2011 is Tree Walk in Castro City Neighborhood. Volunteer to take a Tree Survey or join the Tree Watering Campaign.

SaveTheBay's Chesapeake Bay Foundation is dedicated to reducing pollution, improving fisheries, and protecting wetlands, forests, and underwater grasses. Join their trash collection, salt pond restoration, ban on plastic bags, and "Don't Pave My Bay!" campaign . Volunteer for tree planting on earth day at Ravenswood Salt Ponds in Menlo Park.

Alternative Energy

Reduce pollution due to oil and other greenhouse gas emissions by driving a hybrid, or opt for a zero-emission electric vehicle . Remember to carpool, rideshare, or take public transportation whenever possible.

The City of Palo Alto offers rebates on photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar water heating systems (SWH) as part of solar energy incentive program for reducing the amount of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.

Consider the option of purchasing 100% energy from wind and solar facilities by enrolling in a PaloAltoGreen program.

WaveOne assists businesses reduce their use of energy by generating renewable energy.

By taking steps one individual at a time, our collective efforts can improve our environment and conserve our natural resources! Help make every day an Earth day!