Use less energy
Buy ONLY what is needed
- Give up frills.
- Make an effort to stop being a consumer.
- Don’t watch advertising; it affects you no matter what you think.
- Buy from local merchants.
- Buy food grown locally.
- Don’t buy styles; buy long term quality.
Evaluate vehicle needs & use
- Combine many auto trips into one.
- Consider a Flexcar.
- Give up one or more vehicles.
- Get a job closer to home.
- Take your vacation at home and relax.
- Consider not flying any more.
Evaluate alternative energy
- This is a big topic; let’s take it in steps:
- Start with small scale solar hot water heating.
- Buy the most efficient appliances.
- Have your home site evaluated for solar use; so you know what will be possible.
- Consider construction of small passive solar solutions, for heat retention.
- Get an estimate for construction of a solar grid-tied system.
- Consider buying a diesel vehicle and using biodiesel fuel.
- Is there a micro hydro power project you could develop?
- Is wind power a possibility for you?
Remodel now
- It is cheaper to make expenditures now because of expected inflation.
- Make needed repairs.
- Clean out septic systems.
- Fix the roof.
- Insulate attic, walls, windows, & doors.
- Build green.
- Consider solar.
- Consider a well.
- Consider composting toilets.
Buy used