30 Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

1. Now that I live closer to the office, I walk to work.
- Andrea Janus, Beauty Associate

2. To save energy, I don’t use the dry cycle on the dishwasher (I open the washer door to let dishes air dry), and I rarely use the dryer when washing clothes.
- AJ

3. I have started buying eco-friendly cleaning products, rather than using harsh household cleaners. I also simply use white vinegar mixed with water for light cleaning, like mirrors and counter surfaces.
- AJ

4. I’m trying to drive less and trying to be on time so I’m not racing to get somewhere — apparently driving slower emits fewer fumes.
- Andrea Mills, Home Associate

5. I only turn on lights, heat and air conditioning when I’m home and if it’s really necessary.
- AM

6. I buy local first and as much organic as possible.
- AM

7. I try to use my local library for books instead of buying new ones.
- AM

8. I always bring lunch to work. (I don’t actually do this to be green, but the bonus is no extra garbage from take-out containers.)
- AM

9. I pick up litter and throw it in the garbage along my running route.
- AM

10. I’m appalled at the failure of the Moore Park Residents Association's (in Toronto) attempts to stop all of the trees being cut down for the building of a new Mount Pleasant Cemetery parking lot and visitation centre when it’s technically public land. This year I plan to get involved in environmental issues like this that affect my community.
- AM

11. Generally there are only two of us for dinner at my house, so we use the toaster oven instead of turning on the big oven.
- Andrea Stewart, Food Director

12. I’ve declared a complete personal ban on plastic bags for a little over a year now. If I know I’m going to the mall or the grocery store, I’ll bring a large eco-bag with me. If a shopping opportunity catches me off guard, I’ll still skip the bag, or at the very least ask for a paper one.
- Jasmine Li, Online Editorial Assistant

13. I can’t live without my daily cup of java, but all those paper cups build up quickly to a massive pile of trash. I bring my own mug to Starbucks, not only does this help to reduce garbage, but it also saves me 10% off my order!
- JL

14. I choose to walk, jog, bike or take public transportation whenever I can, and if I really can’t get to where I need to go by one of those methods, I carpool when possible. This saves me gas money, too!
- JL

15. I have switched all of my light bulbs over to Ikea's energy-saving bulbs. Not only do they use less electricity but they also cast a nice soft light that's way more flattering – so I love them! I am also very aware of switching off the lights whenever I leave a room.
- Suzanne Dimma, Home Director