A GUIDE TO A HEALTHIER
HOME ENVIRONMENT
HOW YOU CAN PREVENT POLLUTION IN YOUR HOME
U. S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Printed on recycled paper. Text is at least 50% post-consumer.
REGION III
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9O3R96019
A GUIDE TO A HEALTHIER
HOME ENVIRONMENT
HOW YOU CAN PREVENT POLLUTION IN YOUR HOME
..;,4?^^
U. S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION III
Printed on recycled paper. Text is at least 50% post-consumer.
U.S. EPA Radon III
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TABLE
OF CONTENTS
CHAPTERS: PAGE NUMBERS:
First, Some Facts 4
Indoor Air 5
Alternative Cleaning Products 9
Solid Waste ; 10
Water Conservation 12
Energy Conservation 14
Heating/Cooling 15
Lighting 16
Appliances 16
. Hot Water 17
Automobiles 17
Gardening 18
Play Meter Mania at Home/Save $ 19
Contacts/Sources of Additional Information 20
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DO YOU THINK THAT YOU'RE LIVING IN A SAFE AND HEALTHY HOME?
PLEASE READ ON ...
YOU MAY BE SURPRISED !
First, some facts. Did you know...?
•i-^r" We waste millions of gallons of water each year through inefficient
plumbing, bad habits, etc. (Running the faucet unnecessarily wastes
gallons of water. Most people use water-guzzling toilets and shower heads...
then there's wasteful car washing, landscape watering practices....) In addition to
wasting water we might later need in times of drought, we place a burden on our
treatment facilities and necessitate using additional chemicals to purify this
additional water. It's been estimated that over 40% of the water we use is
unnecessary. .
IS^T" The greatest environmental risk to human health is the poor quality of
much of our indoor air. Toxic levels can build up in our homes from
emissions (off-gassing) from furniture, building materials, carpeting and
adhesives; fumes from cleaning and deodorizing products we use; molds and
mildews; incomplete combustion from furnaces, heaters, stoves and fireplaces;
tobacco smoking; naturally-occurring radon; and pesticides. Tightly sealed
homes, with little or no fresh air circulation, can result in unhealthy
environments.
|s^T" The average homeowner could reap substantial savings each year by
reducing their electricity consumption through the use of more efficient
appliances and energy-conserving measures. The generation of electricity in
many parts of the nation depends to a large degree on burning fossil fuels, a
major cause of poor outdoor air quality and acid rain. The degradation of many
of our lakes, rivers and estuaries is partly attributed to acid deposition.
The average American generates 1,500 Ibs of trash per year, more than any
other country in the world. Each year additional landfills are needed to
contain our waste.
Few of us want a landfill nearby, polluted air and water, unhealthy homes, ... so
what can we do?
This booklet contains information on ways to lead healthier and more
environmentally-friendly lives, reducing the negative impact we each have on the
environment. While the constant change in products and technology may cause
some of the information in this booklet to become outdated, the general practices
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and principles contained should remain sound. What's important is for you to
begin to think more about the implications of your actions and habits upon your
family's health and that of the environment and then begin to make informed
changes. The best part of this is that most of the changes will save
you money! Don't be daunted by the sheer number of
recommendations, work on changing your habits a few at a time
starting with those easiest for you to adopt or those that will save
you the most money. This brochure is intended to be a general
guide to get you thinking about the consequences of your actions.
More specific information on the various topics can be obtained from the sources
isted throughout this booklet
Recent scientific evidence has indicated that the air within our homes and other
buildings is often more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even our largest
and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend
approximately 90% of their time indoors. Thus, for many, if not for most people,
the .risks to their health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors
than outdoors.
In addition, people who may be exposed to indoor air pollutants for the longest
periods of time are often those most susceptible to the effects of indoor air
pollution - the young, the elderly and the chronically ill, especially those suffering
from respiratory or cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, indoor air pollution is
one risk you can most easily do something about.
Just what are the major causes of indoor air pollution?
'Combustion sources
'Formaldehyde/off-gassing from household products
"Biological contaminants
"Lead and asbestos
"Pesticides
"Outdoor sources (radon, pesticides and outdoor air pollution)
"Cleaning products
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COMBUSTION SOURCES
Tobacco smoke is a major source of combustion pollution in many homes.
While, most of us realize that tobacco smoking can be hazardous to the smoker,
passive exposure to tobacco smoke causes 3,000 lung cancer deaths,
over 150,000 lower respiratory tract infections, and thousands of
cases of asthma each year. /
Other sources of combustion pollution are unvented kerosene and
gas space heaters, wood stoves, gas hot water heaters, fireplaces
and gas stoves. The pollutants released are carbon monoxide,
nitrogen dioxide, and particulates. Unvented kerosene heaters may also generate
acid aerosols.
To reduce your exposure to combustion products in the home stop smoking
tobacco products, carefully follow manufacturers' directions when operating fuel
burning, unvented space heaters (especially for proper fuel and adjustments);
keep gas ranges properly adjusted (a persistent yellow-tipped flame is generally
an indicator of maladjustment and increased pollutant emissions; the flame tip
should be blue). When shopping for a new gas stove, look for an electronic
ignition. While fireplaces are great for atmosphere, they are polluting (wood
burning emits particulates) and can be dangerous if not operated and maintained
properly; hence, keep use to a minimum, burn only dry or aged hardwoods (never
burn pressure-treated wood), have flues routinely inspected/cleaned. When not
in use, make certain fireplace damper is closed to prevent heat loss.
FORMALDEHYDE/OFF-GASSING FROM HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS
Many building materials and furnishings contain potentially harmful
chemicals. Formaldehyde, frequently found in adhesives of pressed
wood and other products, can present serious health problems,
particularly to those with asthma. Check the formaldehyde content
of pressed wood products, including building
materials, cabinetry, and furniture before purchase. Exterior grade products
generally contain less formaldehyde. If you purchase pressed wood products it's
advisable to air them outside for a day or two to reduce the amount of off-gassing
that will later take place indoors.
Carpeting and carpet adhesives may also be a problem. Ask for low-emitting
adhesives, ensure that installers follow guidelines, check with manufacturers for
information on emissions. Look for carpeting that has been "baked out" by the
manufacturer to reduce future emissions.
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Organic gases are emitted from many paints, solvents, finishes. Switch to low or
no VOC (volatile organic compound) water-based products.
BIOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTS
Biological contaminants (molds, bacteria, mildew, viruses, pollen, etc.) have
many sources (plant pollen, people, animals, soil, etc.) and are easily spread
through our home air conditioning and heating systems, humidifiers and vacuum
cleaners. Keep humidity levels in the home and basement between 30-50%;
thoroughly clean and dry water-damaged carpets and building materials within 24
hours; keep the house clean through regular cleaning; use high-efficiency filters
and clean or replace regularly; routinely clean evaporation trays in air
conditioners, dehumidifiers, and refrigerators.
LEAD AND ASBESTOS
Lead and asbestos are other sources of significant health risk.
Asbestos, once a common insulation product and component of building
materials, has not been used for some years. Leaving existing asbestos
undisturbed (but sealing it with paint) or having it professionally removed are the
best options. Lead-based paint and contaminated soil, dust and drinking water
(the latter from lead pipes, solder) are the primary sources of lead contamination.
While now largely removed from new products, precautions should be taken to
avoid contamination from existing sources. Do not attempt to remove lead paint
yourself unless trained, as you may only increase your family's exposure risk;
you can leave undisturbed lead paint if it's in good condition.
INDOOR PLANTS/PESTICIDES
Indoor plants are more than just an attractive accent since many help to improve
indoor air quality by removing toxins from the air. For example, spider plants
absorb carbon monoxide; aloes and philodendrons absorb formaldehyde; and
peace lilies, english ivy, and corn plants absorb benzene. Other plants that are
good air purifiers include: banana trees, Chinese evergreens, ficus (fig trees), and
golden pothos. And, of course, all green plants absorb carbon dioxide and emit
oxygen, which we need to breathe. Because indoor plants are small and produce
very little pollen they are not a major source of biological contamination.
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Pesticides are often used in and around the home and can be very hazardous to
your health, let alone the environment. First, try picking the appropriate
plants for the site, particularly, those known to be more disease-resistant.
Hand picking or washing should be tried next, followed by non-toxic
^ alternatives such as diluted dishwashing soap or insecticidal soap. If
x«x pesticides must be used, use with extreme caution following
manufacturers' directions; apply outside or where there's adequate
ventilation and always wear protective clothing. Buy only the quantity
needed; discard excess pesticides only at designated disposal centers,
never in trash, on ground or down drains.
OUTDOOR SOURCES
Outdoor sources of pollution may also cause indoor air problems. Because they
may be naturally occurring (as in the case of radon) and out of the control of the
homeowner/tenant, source reduction strategies may not be possible and efforts
will be limited to keeping such pollutants out of the home or removing them with
an air purification system once they've entered.
CLEANING PRODUCTS
Many common household products we use everyday contain hazardous
ingredients. For example, many toilet cleaners contain muriatic (hydrochloric)
acid, paradichlorobenzene, and calcium hypochlorite; these can potentially cause
ecotoxicity and kidney and liver toxicity. Always examine the list of ingredients
and follow directions carefully. Better yet, consider less toxic alternatives.
Dry cleaners commonly use perchloroethylene, some of which remains on
clothing after it is brought home. Reduce your exposure to newly-dry-cleaned
material to a minimum. If clothing has a strong chemical odor when you pick it
up, do not accept it until it has been properly dried.
For additional information on indoor air pollution, request EPA's free
publications, "The Inside Story; A Guide to Indoor Air Quality" (EPA 402-K-93-007)
and "What You Should Know About Combustion Appliances and Indoor Air
Pollution."
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ALTERNATIVE CLEANERS: SAFER FOR YOU AND THE ENVIRONMENT*
The following are cleaning products that can, quite effectively, replace various chemical ones.
While less hazardous, all are not harmless, so exert care when using.
TOILET CLEANERS: Toilet brush and baking soda or borax; white vinegar soak for tub and sinks.
DRAIN CLEANERS: Mechanical snake or plunger; flush weekly with boiling water; 1/4 cup baking
soda.
OVEN CLEANERS: Wipe oven while still warm; salt spills then scrub with paste made of baking
soda and water.
BLEACH: 1/2 cup white vinegar or baking soda or borax per load of laundry.
DISHWASHING DETERGENTS: 1 part borax to 1 part baking soda.
ROACH CONTROL: Powdered boric acid
ALL-PURPOSE CLEANERS/DISINFECTANTS: Undiluted white vinegar ; 1/2 cup borax mixed with
boiling water.
GLASS CLEANERS: Wash windows with 1/4 to 1/2 cup white vinegar to 1 quart warm water; apply
from spray bottle, rub dry with newspaper.
FABRIC SOFTENERS: 1 cup white vinegar or 1/4 cup baking soda in final rinse water.
AIR FRESHENERS: Open box of baking soda or dish of vanilla; simmer cloves; open windows and
use exhaust fans.
LAUNDRY DETERGENTS: Use products with low or no phosphates.
MOTHBALLS: Cedar chips; lavender flowers, or other aromatic herbs and spices.
RUG AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS: Clean immediately with soda water or a paste made from
baking soda, then vacuum.
FLOOR AND FURNITURE POLISH: 1 part lemon oil or juice, 2 parts olive/vegetable/linseed oil;
vegetable oH soap; use toothpaste to remove water stains.
FURNITURE STRIPPERS: Equal parts of boiled linseed oil, turpentine and vinegar with steel wool;
sandpaper or heatgun.
STAINS/FINISHES: Use natural earth pigment finishes or water-based products.
ENAMEL OR OIL-BASED PAINTS: Water-based paints; look for low or no VOC paint. Always use
in well-ventilated areas.
* This information on alternative products provided by several non-profits
including the Clean Water Fund and Pennsylvania Resources Council.
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Landfills are quickly filling up across the nation and options for new sites are
shrinking; some are contaminating our groundwater. Incinerators also can be
harmful to the environment, impairing the quality of our air. Since we all want
fresh air and clean water and no one wants an incinerator nor landfill next door,
we've got to examine our practices and lifestyles to reduce the amount of trash
we generate. Otherwise, it won't be long till we're individually assessed fees for
the amount or weight of our trash (some communities are already assessing a
per bag fee). Here are some methods/practices that can be adopted for home
use:
First, examine your trash to see what's being discarded so you
can concentrate your reduction efforts on those items that
form the bulk of your trash.
Packaging makes up nearly one-third of what we purchase and an even greater
percentage of our trash. Smarter shopping can reduce this waste. Buying in
bulk, buying concentrates, selecting products with less or
no packaging, bringing reusable bags to the store are the
cornerstones to reducing packaging. Where there's no
' ; choice available or your favorite brands use excess
—' packaging, voice your concerns about reducing waste and
conserving resources to both manufacturers (many have
toll free.numbers on their products) and store managers. While glass and
aluminum containers are recycled nearly everywhere, this isn't true for
cardboard, cartons and mixed paper. However, if your municipality doesn't
recycle them, check around for there are often other recycling centers nearby that
accept such products. Plastic bags may be returned to many grocery stores and
many shipping services will accept plastic peanuts and other package fillers.
Patronize grocery stores that offer instant rebates for bringing your own bags.
Start asking yourself questions like - do I really need the convenience of
individually packaged coffee in a filter? Couldn't I get along with a bulk can of
coffee and a reusable filter? Couldn't I stop using disposable razors?
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Nearly 20% of residential trash is composed of yard waste - leaves, grass
clippings, plant material, etc. We're throwing away valuable
nutrients that we should be using to nourish our gardens in place of
chemical fertilizers! Learn to compost food scraps and yard waste.
Use a mulching mower; it'll provide nutrients to your lawn and
eliminate the need to dispose of clippings. Use composted or
shredded leaves for mulch; it'll reduce the need for weeding and
watering and eliminate the disposal problem. If you don't have the
room to compost or can't utilize all that you generate, participate in collection
programs that accept compostable material.
Consider durable goods and reusable products when you shop. Reduce your use
of disposable products. Purchase items that are available in refillable containers.
Rechargeable batteries will reduce garbage and help keep toxic metals out of
waste streams. Some rechargers are even solar powered! Maintain and repair
durable products. Help close the recycling loop and look for items that are made
out of recycled materials.
Borrow, rent or share items used infrequently.
Reduce junk mail by writing the Direct Marketing Association
(Mail Preference Service, Direct Marketing Association,
PO Box 9008, Farmingdale, NY 11735-9008) and ask that your name be removed
from mailing lists (make certain to list all names to whom your junk mail has been
addressed). You may need to repeat this process every couple years to minimize
such unwanted mail.
When shopping, keep in mind that very little biodegradation occurs in landfills, so
that unless you'll be composting, biodegradability is of limited environmental
value.
Buy only in the amount you need or can use in a reasonable amount of time to
avoid having to dispose of spoiled or outdated products.
Purchase organic food; not only are there lower health risks, but without
pesticide use the production of organic food is more
environmentally-friendly.
By changing to a more vegetarian diet, we'll decrease the
environmental harm from raising animals and improve our
health. Raising animals is much more resource intensive than raising crops. Eat
lower down on the food chain!
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Keep paper towels out of easy reach and, instead, have, cloth towels and napkins,
rags and sponges handy. Assign a different colored cloth napkin to each family
member to be used until the next laundry day. When buying paper towels look
for those made from 100% recycled paper, are undecorated (contain no dyes)
and, if available, are unbleached.
Cancel subscriptions to magazines and newspapers you rarely read; use your
local library or share subscriptions with friends.
For additional information on reducing solid waste, request EPA's free
publication, "The Consumer's Handbook for Reducing Solid Waste" (EPA 530-K-
92-003).
WATER
CONSERVATION
Everyone knows about the necessity of water conservation in the western U.S.
because of the limited availability of drinking water. In the East, it is sometimes
necessary to conserve water in times of drought or when groundwater becomes
contaminated by landfills, toxic waste. Reducing our water use, in addition to
saving money on sewer, energy and water bills, conserves water for times of
drought and allows more fresh water to flow through our rivers to our estuaries
(thus preserving freshwater ecosystems and preventing adverse impacts of
saltwater intrusions). By reducing our water usage we reduce the need for
sewage treatment, saving our communities the need for having to expand water
treatment plants. Most households could easily decrease their water
consumption by 20% or more without discomfort or expense. By acquiring good
water use habits and applying common sense you can make a difference.
Toilet flushing accounts for nearly 40% of water usage in the
average home. While new homes generally contain low
consumption toilets using as little as 1.5 gallons per flush,
most homes still contain inefficient ones that use 4-6 gallons
per flush. These old flush toilets can be modified to use less water merely by
inserting 2 to 3 half-gallon plastic bottles filled with water in the tanks. Add more
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or fewer bottles/containers depending on satisfaction with the flushing action.
You may also need to place some stones inside the bottles to keep them from
shifting and interfering with the flush mechanism. If you're thinking of replacing
a toilet make certain to get one of the new ultra-low consumption models.
Bathing is the second most water-consuming activity in the average home. As
baths generally consume much more water than showers, switch to short
showers. Besides, long, hot showers expose you to more risk from inhaling,
absorbing contaminants that may be present in your water. Inexpensive water-
saving showerheads can reduce usage by 50% over standard heads. They're
designed to slow flow rates to 2 gallons per minute while still maintaining a
forceful, pleasing shower. Fit all showers with these showerheads.
Laundry use is typically the third most water-intensive home activity. Try to wash
clothes only when you have a full load; if a smaller load must be done, set the
water level appropriately. When shopping for a new washer, remember that front
loading models generally use about 40% less water than top-loading models for
comparable loads.
Check all plumbing fixtures to ensure there are no leaks (a leaking
faucet or toilet can waste 20 or more gallons of water a day).
Run your dishwasher only when you have a full load; for normal use
select the cycle with fewest number of washes and rinses. When hand
washing dishes, use a dish tub to soak and wash dirty dishes, rather than doing
so under running tap water.
turn off your water and water heater when away from home for more than a few
days.
Check your water meter when no water is being used; if the dials move you
probably have a leak.
Don't run your water continuously when washing dishes in the sink, cleaning
vegetables and fruit, brushing your teeth, shaving, etc.
Water your lawn and wash your car only when absolutely necessary, then use
water-saving devices.
Compost your food scraps rather then putting them down the garbage disposal.
If you have a septic system, proper maintenance is crucial to keeping it working
properly and preventing groundwater contamination. Know the location of the
components of your system and keep heavy vehicles away; don't plant trees nor
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shrubs near the drain lines (roots can clog the system); don't put chemicals down
the drain (they can destroy the bacteria needed to help purify the water); don't
overload your system with too much washing at one time; don't use a garbage
disposal; conserve water; and have your tank monitored yearly (sludge and scum
should be removed every few years).
For additional information on water quality protection and conservation, request
any of the following: "Baybook, A Guide to Reducing Water Pollution at Home"
(Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay/Chesapeake Bay Program publication); EPA
Fact Sheet: "21 Water Conservation Measures for Everybody" (EPA 570/9-91-100);
EPA's pamphlets, "Preventing Pollution Through Efficient Water Use" (20W-0002,
July 1990) and "Saving Money with Home Water Conservation Devices".
ENERGY
CONSERVATION
Energy is expensive and most forms are not clean. Electricity, while clean
operating can be environmentally harmful to generate. The burning of coal and
other fossil fuels reduces our air quality and leads to acid rain that contaminates
our surface waters. Furthermore, the extraction of fossil fuels
destroys wildlife habitat. Acid mine drainage and oil spills
contaminate our soils and pollute our waters. With nuclear energy
there is the danger of radioactive leakage, the problems associated
with disposal of spent fuel, and thermal impacts to rivers and lakes from the
discharge of water used to cool reactors. Renewable sources of energy like solar
energy and the harnessing of wind and the oceans are environmentally-
preferable, but as even they have environmental impacts, we should all attempt to
conserve energy, whatever the source. There is much you as a homeowner or
tenant can do to reduce your energy bills and, at the same time, contribute to a
cleaner environment.
First, consider some usage facts to help you target reduction measures:
46% of residential energy is used to heat and cool our homes
24% is consumed by lighting, cooking and running appliances
15% is used for heating water
15% is used to refrigerate and freeze foods
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HEATING/COOLING
Most of residential heat loss is through windows. Covering windows at night,
particularly with tight-fitting thermal drapes, can reduce heating bills
dramatically. Also, consider applying plastic film liners, storm windows or
replacement with high-efficiency windows.
Have your furnace tuned up by a heating technician yearly; inefficient heating
systems can waste 20% or more of the energy used. Turn down thermostats for
heating, particularly when you're asleep or away from home. For every degree
you lower the temperature you reduce your furnace's energy consumption by 2-
3%. Recommended settings are 68° F when home, 55° F when away or asleep.
Use timers or electronic thermostats to make for convenient and efficient heating
of your home. Keep rooms infrequently used at cooler temperatures. Add extra
insulation (R-30 in ceilings, R-19 for floors, R-11 for exterior walls), seal external
cracks around windows and doors and ductwork, add storm doors and windows,
purchase high-efficiency glass for new glazing. Plant coniferous trees on NW
side of house to block winter winds and reduce heating needs. Consider a high-
efficiency furnace; the initial cost may be quickly recouped from the energy
savings. Clean or replace filters regularly. Turn off kitchen and bath exhaust
fans promptly when they've done their job; most are capable of exhausting a
houseful of warmed or cooled air in an hour. When buying a heat pump, look for
a high Coefficient of Performance (COP); a good heat pump will have a COP of
2.0 or greater at 17° F and 3.0 or greater at 47° F.
In summer, use air conditioning as little as possible. Fans are
preferable because they use much less electricity; consider
ceiling fans in frequently used rooms. When you must
purchase an air conditioner look for a model with the highest
Energy Efficiency Rating (an EER of 10 is excellent), then place
it in a window getting the least amount of direct sunshine or
erect a sunshield for it When in use, select the energy-saver
option that shuts both the fan and compressor off when the
desired temperature is reached. Plant deciduous trees on S and
SW sides of home to shade and reduce cooling costs. Use
awnings or other window coverings to reduce solar heating.
Use light (especially white) paint and materials for external surfaces, particularly
roofs, to reflect heat and light Shade your central air conditioner with shrubbery
or an awning (it'll increase efficiency by about 10%). Plant or prune trees and
shrubbery to direct cooling breezes through windows.
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LIGHTING
Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. Utilize timers, dimmers and light
sensors to conserve electricity. Use task lighting to illuminate only the space
necessary. When repainting, keep in mind that light-colored walls will make your
rooms brighter with less lighting (hence savings to you and the environment)
than dark colors.
Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient fluorescent ones (they're
more expensive to buy, but last up to 10 times longer and use about 1/4 the
electricity, thus yielding significant savings over the long run). And, amazingly,
s "\ just by replacing one traditional bulb with a compact fluorescent will
reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere by
, half a ton over the life of the bulb! If you need to use incandescent
bulbs, use them wisely. Smaller wattage bulbs aren't as efficient as
L _J higher wattage bulbs. For example, it takes two 60-watt bulbs or four
~|p 40-watt bulbs to light a space to the same brightness as one 100-watt
bulb. Using the 100-watt bulb will cost 17% less than using the 60-watt
bulbs and 38% less than using the 40-watt bulbs. "Energy Miser" or "Supersaver"
type incandescent bulbs use 5-13% less electricity than ordinary bulbs; while a
little more expensive, they'll save you money over their lifetime. "Long-life"
incandescent bulbs are LESS efficient than standard bulbs; use them only where
replacing bulbs is very difficult!
APPLIANCES
Select the most energy efficient appliances available; they may cost more initially
but will pay for themselves through lower operating costs.
Keep use of electrical appliances to a minimum; consider using
hand-operated appliances - reserve electric appliances and tools for
the really big jobs. Convection ovens cook more efficiently and
thus use less energy than conventional ovens; for small quantities of food,
microwave ovens use even less energy. When shopping for a gas range, select
one with an electronic ignition, which uses 40% less energy than one with a
constant pilot light. Turn off televisions and radios when you leave a room.
Line dry your clothing wherever possible. If you're purchasing a dryer, look for a
moisture sensor to avoid overdrying and damaging clothes. Also, most clothes,
especially permanent press, wrinkle less if taken out damp and air dried.
Remember, one full load can be dried with less energy than two half-full loads.
Clean out the lint filter after every load to keep your machine running efficiently
and reduce the danger of fire.
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When using an automatic dishwasher, wait till you have a full load and after final
rinse cycle, open the door to allow air drying rather then using 'heat dry' setting.
HEATING WATER
Set your water heater at about 120° (between medium and low) to reduce energy
use and the risk of scalding. Consider wrapping an insulation jacket around the
water heater and nearby water pipes. When away for extended periods, turn
temperature down to lowest setting or turn it off.
Wash lightly soiled clothes on a delicate cycle; this not only saves energy, but
decreases the wear and tear on your clothes and the machine.
For additional information on energy conservation, request EPA's pamphlet,
"Save Energy & Save the Earth" or the U.S. Department of Energy's booklet, "Tips
for Energy Savers".
Automobile emissions are a major source of air pollution, accounting for up to
60% of air pollution in cities. What can we do when so much is dependent upon
the automobile? First, keep their use to a minimum. As studies have shown that
more than 80% of auto travel is for trips of less than 3,miles, bicycle, walk or use
public transportation wherever possible. When you must drive, consolidate trips
and offer others a ride.
Keep vehicles well-tuned and tires properly inflated so they are
most fuel-efficient and less polluting. Avoid excessive speeds
and fast acceleration; most cars are most fuel-efficient at
steady, moderate speeds (45-55 mph). When seeking a new
or used car, purchase fuel-efficient models (EPA provides
ratings for comparative use). Old models are among the most
polluting and some of the biggest fuel guzzlers, so consider retiring that old
junker or, at least, keep it well maintained.
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If you do your own auto maintenance, avoid spills and take extra care to keep
lubricants out of drains. One quart of oil can create a 2-acre oil slick! Take used
oil to your neighborhood garage or recycling center. Antifreeze is toxic to
people, pets, fish and wildlife; check to see if your local garage will accept it,
otherwise, take it to a household hazardous waste collection center. Auto
batteries contain sulfuric acid and lead, so avoid direct contact with your skin
and, likewise, bring old batteries to a recycling center.
Planting trees, shrubs, and flowers can greatly benefit our environment in many
ways (e.g., through improving air and water quality, creating additional wildlife
habitat, cooling our communities, creating noise barriers),
however many of our gardening practices can actually be
harmful.
Pesticides pose a threat to human health, wildlife and water
quality; power tools such as mowers, blowers and trimmers
create air and noise pollution; poor garden layout can result in erosion of topsoil,
and wasteful water usage; improper plant selection can result in biological
nightmares where exotics outcompete native plants.
Eliminate or at least reduce the use of pesticides as they contain chemicals that
may be hazardous to human health, wildlife and water quality. Careful selection
of appropriate plant material and use of Integrated Pest Management practices
can greatly reduce the need to use pesticides.
For detailed pollution prevention information on gardening, request our free
companion brochure, "A Gardener's Guide to a Healthier Environment", and any
of the following: "Citizen's Guide to Pesticides" (22T-1002), "Healthy Lawn
Healthy Environment" (700-J-92-005), "Integrated Pest Management", and
"Creating a Natural Environment" by calling EPA's Public Information Center at
(215)814-5121.
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Save Money!
Conserve Our Resources!
Have Fun!
Educate Your Children!
How?
Play Meter Mania at Home
METER MANIA
Enlist your children in environmental protection, make
resource conservation fun and educational, and save
money. Play METER MANIA by having your kids monitor
utility usage. The rules are simple and flexible.
1. Teach them how to read your water, gas and electric
meters;
2. Explain which household activities rely on which
resources; show them how quickly the dials advance
when certain appliances or water are running;
3. Share the conservation tips contained in this booklet;
4. Establish a baseline usage for each utility
(refer to bills for the same month last year);
5. Have your kids monitor usage (daily, weekly, and/or
monthly);
6. Finally, offer some reward for their helping you save
money through reduced utility usage.
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POLLUTION PREVENTION CONTACTS:
U.S. EPA Region III, Pollution Prevention Team, (215) 814-2761
Delaware: Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control,
(302)739-3822
District of Columbia: DC Department of Health, (202) 535-2305
Maryland: Department of the Environment, (410) 631-4119
Pennsylvania: Department of Environmental Protection, (717) 783-9981
Virginia: Department of Environmental Quality, (804) 698-4344
West Virginia: Department of Environmental Protection, (304) 484-6269
OTHER SOURCES OF POLLUTION PREVENTION INFORMATION:
Most of the guides/fact sheets referenced in this brochure can be obtained
free by contacting EPA Region Ill's Public Information Center (which serves
the Middle Atlantic States); call (215) 814-5121 or visit the Center in the
lobby of the 1650 Arch Street Building in downtown Philadelphia (open
normal business hours).
Additional information can be obtained by calling the national Pollution
Prevention Information Clearinghouse at (202) 260-1023 or the
Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, 6600 York Road, Baltimore, MD 21212;
call (401) 377-6270.
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REMEMBER, OUR OWN ACTIVITIES AND PRACTICES CAN HAVE A SIGNIFICANT
IMPACT ON THE HEALTH AND QUALITY OF OUR HOME ENVIRONMENT, WHILE
THE CUMULATIVE IMPACTS OF ALL OF OUR ACTIVITIES AND PRACTICES HAVE
A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON OUR SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT. PLEASE DO
YOUR PART TO BE MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY, THEN GO A STEP
FURTHER AND ENCOURAGE YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS TO DO THE
SAME. IT WILL TAKE ALL OF US WORKING TOGETHER TO ENSURE WE HAVE
A CLEAN, HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR CHILDREN AND FUTURE
GENERATIONS. AS IT MAY NOT BE PRACTICAL OR FEASIBLE TO ADOPT ALL
THE RECOMMENDATIONS PROVIDED IN THIS GUIDE, START BY MAKING
SMALL CHANGES AND STRIVE TO CONTINUALLY ADOPT MORE.
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Thank You
EPA gratefully acknowledges the following for information
included in this booklet:
Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay
American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy
Center for Hazardous Materials Research
Clean Water Fund
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
Delaware Nature Society
District of Columbia Government Regulation Administration
Maryland Department of the Environment
Massachusetts Audubon Society
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Missouri State University
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
Pennsylvania Resources Council
U.S. Department of Energy
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
Virginia Department of Waste Management
West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
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PLEASE DON'T DISCARD!
Practice pollution prevention by sharing this brochure with others
when you are finished.
THANK YOU
U.S. EPA, Region III, Pollution Prevention Program (3EIOO)
1650 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
11/2000
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