Written by Christine Skorepa
Citizen staff
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Friday, 03 July 2009 |
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We need to live smart, said Terri McClymont.
"We need to see what we can do in and out of the house," she said.
Each day at 1 p.m. at the REAPS garden, 1950 Gorse Street, the recycling team will host a children's craft-making event using recycled material while adults can find out more information about how to recycle, reuse and reduce more efficiently.
"If you make one change a week you can make a huge difference," said McClymont. Start taking shorter showers, turn off the water while brushing your teeth, or put the sprinkler on a timer. These small steps can lead to big changes.
McClymont is quick to point out that Prince George is well on its way to efficient recycling. Out of all the drink containers bought here, more than 90 per cent are recycled. Now if everyone recycled their paper and cardboard products at the same time as they recycle their containers, that would make a huge change in landfills. If everyone recycled, 80 per cent could be diverted from landfills, she said.
McClymont offers more helpful hints.
Try composting coffee grounds and filters or use the grounds as a border along the garden to deter slugs and other undesirables from crossing that line. This will save money while avoiding the use of chemicals that harm the environment. To conserve water, let a bowl of water do double duty by washing vegetables first and then watering plants afterward, said McClymont.
More of McClymont's tips include avoiding the purchase of harsh chemicals to clean the house, saving money and the environment.
"Clean naturally by using a baking soda and lemon juice mixture on stoves and sinks, it cuts grease and gets everything shiny," she said.
Unplug a sink by pouring vinegar and baking soda down the drain.
"It's like a little science experiment, and the kids argue over who gets to do it," McClymont smiled.
If the coffee is burned to the bottom of the pot, warm water and vinegar will loosen it when soaked. The same combination works for food burned in a pot or frying pan, simmer the mixture on the stove for a few minutes before wiping.
"These ingredients for homemade cleaners don't harm the environment and cost only pennies compared to store-bought cleaners that contain harsh chemicals," said McClymont.
To clean stains from the carpet use soda water or sparkling water. It's a very economical way to clean without harming the environment, she added.
"Dust down the coils at the back of the fridge once a month, that will cut wasted energy by 30 per cent," said McClymont. This also saves the consumer money.
For more ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle visit the REAPS website www.reaps.org or visit the garden at 1 p.m. from July 5 to 11 at 1950 Gorse St.
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Last Updated ( Friday, 03 July 2009 )
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