For Immediate Release
Top 10 Actions for Earth Day 2009
TORONTO (16/04/09) — Earth Day 2009, April 22, isn’t about a single action you can do to support a healthier environment. Instead, Earth Day is seen by many as a catalyst for change and a day to renew a personal commitment to support a healthier environment.
To encourage further environmental action, Earth Day Canada’s EcoAction Teams program offers the Top 10 Actions for Earth Day 2009 to help Canadians reduce their impact on the environment everyday.
“Earth Day Canada’s EcoAction Teams program wants to support Canadians as they move to live more responsibly with the environment. The Top 10 Actions are simple tips to get the ball rolling,” says Cheryl Gudz, Manager of the EcoAction Teams program. “Once people realize how simple it is to conserve at home and on the go, it can quickly become a way of life.”
Earth Day Canada’s Top 10 Actions for Earth Day 2009
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Buy what you need, not what you want
Consider renting and borrowing things that are seldom needed
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Buy used items from garage sales and second-hand stores
Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs
Use aerators on faucets and shower heads
Weatherstrip windows and doors
Walk, cycle, car pool and use public transportation
When driving, reduce idling and maintain correct tire pressure
Consider car sharing programs or renting
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Choose local and organic foods that are in season and support local food producers
Eat less meat
Wash full loads of clothes in cold water and hang to air dry
For summer air conditioning, set your thermostat to 24°C or 25°C
For winter heating, set your thermostat to 19°C or 20°C
Install ceiling fans and programmable thermostats
Vacation, travel and work as close to home as possible
Take short showers instead of baths
Close water taps while brushing your teeth
Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products
Make simple, natural cleaners with ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and water
Donate, reuse and recycle items before throwing them into the trash
Harmful materials like chemicals, batteries, electronics, etc. should be taken to local hazardous waste depots or recyclers
With Earth Day Canada’s EcoAction Teams program, individuals can commit to environmental action, households can reduce consumption and municipalities can became leaders in promoting sustainable behaviour. Reduce your impact on the environment with the EcoAction Teams program, this Earth Day and everyday!
To sign up to the EcoAction Teams program or to learn more about environmental action and education, visit www.earthday.ca.
About Earth Day Canada
Earth Day Canada (EDC), a national environmental charity founded in 1990, provides Canadians with the practical knowledge and tools they need to lessen their impact on the environment. In 2004 it was recognized as the top environmental education organization in North America, for its innovative year-round programs and educational resources, by the Washington-based North American Association for Environmental Education, the world’s largest association of environmental educators. In 2008 it was chosen as Canada’s “Outstanding Non-profit Organization” by the Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication. EDC regularly partners with thousands of organizations in all parts of Canada. www.earthday.ca
Contact: Keith Treffry | Communications Director | Earth Day Canada | 416.599.1991 x 107 | keith@earthday.ca