| Environment | |
| Fuel-Efficient Cars | Choose a fuel-efficient, low polluting vehicle as your next car. This reduces our dependence on foreign oil and helps reduce local pollution. Look for SULEV or PZEV emissions ratings and 40 MPG or more (www.fueleconomy.gov). |
| Smart Energy Use | Invest in energy-efficient lighting, insulation, thermostats, appliances, windows, etc. Look for the Energy Star rating on thermostats and appliances (www.energystar.gov). |
| Nontoxic and Natural | Use nontoxic or natural alternatives to fertilizers, pesticides, solvents, or chemical cleaners; or simply reduce how much you use (www.betterbasics.com) |
| Get Active | Whenever practical, walk, bicycle, or take public transit. Good for your health and for the environment (www.commute.org). |
| Conserve Water | Choose low-flow toilets, low-water washing machines, and water-wise landscape plants (and don’t over-water) (www.waterwiser.org). |
| Social Equity | |
| Equal Opportunity | Support job training efforts by schools, business, and non-profits. Volunteer time or money to non-profits that provide a hand up for our residents in need. Examples include SSMC Sustainability Award winners OICW (www.oicw.org) and The Bread Project. |
| Affordable Housing | Volunteer time or money to non-profits that support affordable housing so that people who work here can afford to live here. Examples include SSMC Sustainability Award winners Peninsula Habitat for Humanity (www.peninsulahabitat.org), Mid-Peninsula Housing Coalition (www.midpen-housing.org), and Shelter Network (www.shelternetwork.org). |
| Donate, Don’t Trash | Donate gently used items for the benefit of others. RecycleWorks (www.recycleworks.org) Re-Use Guide can help you find a new home for just about anything. |
| Economy | |
| Buy Local | Shop locally-owned businesses. Dollars spent at local retailers support not only that store, but also a variety of other local businesses (banks, accountants, printers, etc.). |
| Support Our Local, Organic Farmers | Buy and eat local, organic foods. Shop your farmers market or try a farm share (www.mariquita.com/csa). |
| Working Conditions | Patronize businesses that pay a living wage and provide health benefits. Invest in socially responsible mutual funds. |