Going green is more important now than ever before. Use the tips below to find out how you can go green at home, school or work.
Use reusable shopping bags.
Install energy efficiency measures throughout your home. See our rebate programs.
Drink filtered tap water and use a recyclable water bottle.
Compost your garbage; up to 60% of your waste is suitable for composting.
Buy recycled products like paper, carpet, and tile.
Install water efficient fixtures like faucets and toilets.
Install weather based irrigation controllers and native plants in your yard.
Eat and buy local! Try to purchase foods and products grown or produced within 100 miles of where you live. You can start at one of Riverside Farmer's Markets.
Look for non-toxic cleaning products - it's better for your family and the environment.
Choose water based latex paints over solvent based paints when painting your home. Never use lead based paints.
Reduce, recycle, reuse.
If you have a furnace, fireplace or gas heater, have them serviced regularly to prevent deadly fumes and install a carbon monoxide detector.
Ensure you have good ventilation and balanced humidity in your home to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health.
Make sure to recycle all electronics and batteries. You can check the CURE website for the nearest household hazardous waste drop off location.
Shade your air conditioning condenser, but be careful not to block the flow of air to the unit.
Use heat-producing appliances like dishwashers, clothes dryers, and irons in the morning or after 8pm.
Replace or clean air conditioning filters monthly or as needed to keep your system working optimally.
Set your thermostat to 78° on hot days, and 84° on days over 100°. Use room fans to feel even cooler.
Wash full loads in your dishwasher to conserve water.
Keep drapes, blinds and shades closed to keep the sun’s rays out of your home in warm weather.
Turn lights off in rooms that aren’t being used.
Set swimming pool filtering and sweeping equipment timers to avoid peak use hours from noon to 8pm.
Conserve water by spreading mulch around plants and trees.