University of Illinois Extension is ‘thinking green'

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[It seems these days many adults and youth are looking at ways to live a "greener" everyday life. The world has become increasingly concerned about our environment and how our actions affect it. To continue these efforts, adults can help the up-and-coming generation by teaching responsible practices, so we can continue to be good stewards of the earth.

Tips to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink

Reduce: Don't purchase items you don't need. Most people can get along with less "stuff." This can start with your shopping list by avoiding pointless purchases. Donate unwanted items to family, friends, charitable organizations or a neighbor. As gas prices continue to increase, walking, carpooling or taking public transportation can help reduce the use of gasoline. Turn off water while showering and brushing teeth, turn off lights, electronics/appliances when not in use, and run the dishwasher for full loads only or hand-wash dishes. Reduce the amount of disposable paper and plastic products such as utensils, cups, napkins, plates, wrappers and paper towels. More trees can be saved by using less paper products. By using less throwaway utensils and paper products, we can reduce the waste in local landfills.

Reuse: If you need items that will rarely be used, perhaps you could borrow or share them with others. Many items like glass jars can be used to organize sewing and craft supplies. Buy rechargeable batteries. Carrier bags can be used for shopping instead of using paper and plastic bags. Packaging items such as egg cartons can be donated to schools, where they could be used for art projects.

Recycle: This is an important part of conserving our natural resources and improving our environment. When purchasing items think of ways they can be recycled. Many products such as glass, metal, plastic and paper can be recycled. Furniture, building materials, and electronic equipment can also be recycled. Create recycling bins in your home for materials such as plastic, glass, paper, and aluminum. Many communities have recycling centers. Recycle garden products through composting. This is a process where waste degrades into compost and can be used to help your garden grow. Composting is a good way to recycle kitchen and garden waste such as leftover food and trimmings from the garden. Instead of throwing grass clippings away, leave the cuttings on the ground, which will turn into nutrients and act as a fertilizer in the soil. Using recycled materials reduces the damage to wetlands, rivers, forests, and other places essential to wildlife.

Rethink: What changes can you make to help the environment? What needed items can be reused and recycled? What can you do every day to reduce waste?

By continuing to reduce, reuse, recycle, and rethink, we can move to a "greener" everyday life.

For more information on "Reducing, Reusing, Recycling, and Rethinking" or other University of Illinois 4-H Youth Development programs, contact the University of Illinois Extension office in Randolph County at 443-4364 or visit http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h.