Resolutions for a Healthier and Greener 2009

This year, make a few resolutions that are easy to keep. Take a couple of these simple steps to be well, make smart choices and save a little money in 2009. And as always, now's the time to get rid of the old and make a fresh start. Find out which three things even the most avid environmentalist should throw in the trash.

Be well!

Walk or bike more. It's not only good for your health, it's good for everyone else's health by reducing pollution.

Eat more locally grown food. Seasonal produce that hasn't flown half-way around the world will be fresher, tastier and cuts down on the pollution that causes global warming.

Buy organic when you can particularly peaches, apples, bell peppers, celery, nectarines and strawberries, which contain the most pesticides.

Avoid fish high in mercury and choose fish that are sustainably caught to ensure a steady supply for years to come.

Don't spray pesticides to control pest in your home. Stop pests at the source and user safer chemical treatments only when necessary. Find a Green Shield-certified pest control expert.

Save!

If you're still buying plastic bottles of water, buy a reusable bottle instead.

Clean your home with natural products, just about anything can be cleaned with vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda.

Take a couple simple steps to save a lot of energy in your home.

Carry a reusable bag and refuse plastic bags, no more breaking, tearing or blowing in the wind. Some stores will give you a credit if you bring your own bag.

Out with the old!

There are a few old things that are simply too unhealthy or inefficient to continue using another year. Toss these now and replace with better alternatives:

Incandescent light bulbs waste so much energy compared to compact fluorescent bulbs that you shouldn't wait until they burn out to replace them with CFLs. If everyone increased their energy efficiency, we wouldn't need to build more polluting power plants that cause global warming.

Old refrigerators use much more energy than newer models. Today's Energy Star-qualified models use 40 percent less energy than the conventional models sold in 2001. Replacing an aging fridge could dramatically reduce your monthly electricity bill. Learn more.

PVC is toxic to produce and unhealthy to have in your home. PVC often contains lead and products made of PVC release toxic chemicals in your home. Toss anything made of PVC -- check shower curtains, rain jackets and children's toys.

Have a healthy, happy new year!

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