Environmentalism

Since moving back to NY and buying a house, I've been more conscious of how my decisions and purchases affect the environment.

I help the environment by:

• Recycling as much as I can
• Composting as much as I can
  
• Buying products in minimal packaging or in glass
• Bringing a silicone hot pad to work so I don't need to use 8 million paper towels after heating my lunch up
  
• Bringing a hand towel to work so I don't need to use 8 million paper towels in the bathroom
  
• Using a programmable thermostat
  
• Buying products that are organic, natural or chemical free whenever possible
• Unplugging major electronics when not in use
• Using compact fluorescent or LED bulbs
• Shopping at the farmer's market when it's open
• Using a Brita pitcher at home and at work instead of drinking bottled water
• Buying energy efficient electronics
• Layering instead of turning up the heat
• Driving defensively to improve fuel economy
• Bringing my lunch to work in a cooler instead of a plastic bag or container
• Using paper or cloth bags at the grocery store
• Using baking soda + water for shampoo and cider vinegar + water for conditioner
• Using solar powered lights for the end of my driveway
  

However, I can still do much, much more by:

• Biking more including to work
• Eating less meat
• Eating less processed food
• Buying less stuff
• Taking shorter showers
• Increasing the insulation in my house
• Replacing older appliances
• Watching less TV and/or fewer movies

Any other suggestions?