Earth Day Revisited

Since many of you are subscribers to Waking Up on the Planet who haven't received the e-news in awhile (see opening post about tech troubles), I thought I'd provide some of the April issue's content here -- tips for honoring Earth Day,which surely should extend beyond a single day on the calendar. Thse simple actions can become habits that transform your relationship with all living things -- every day of the year.

> Cut down on your gas consumption by properly inflating your tires.
> Buy green tee shirts. Not the color green (unless you like it), but green as in "eco-friendly," made from organic cotton or hemp. Some sources include Patagonia and American Apparel’s "Sustainable Edition" line.
> Replace chemical-heavy household cleaners with eco-friendly versions like those from Seventh Generation or Ecover. Discover the cleaning power of simple vinegar and water.
> Choose organic gardening products and techniques this year instead of toxic pesticides and wasteful practices. Ask your county extension service for advice, or visit OrganicGardening.com.
> Replace at least some of the conventional lightbulbs in your home with compact fluorescent bulbs.
> Support local food producers, which cuts down on energy used to transport foods around the country. Buy from local food markets and produce stands, and buy organic when you can.
> Get more ideas and share your own with like minds at Grist.org or GreenThinkers.org.

Happy Earth Day -- all year long.