DEP Encourages Green Resolutions in 2006

“Preserving and protecting the state’s natural resources takes great commitment,” said DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “Florida’s citizens can help make a positive impact in 2006 by adopting environmentally-friendly practices.”

To help you get started, here are ten simple resolutions that will make 2006 cleaner and greener.

• Conserve energy. Conduct an energy audit on your home to determine areas for improvement. Energy specialists can identify areas where you can save energy at little or no cost.

• Bike, walk, bus or carpool at least one day a week. Explore alternative means for transportation to protect Florida’s air quality. Clean air is important to our health and our environment.

• Recycle wisely. Buying products made of recycled content helps maintain the market value of recyclable materials. To learn more about recycling visit www.floridadep.org/waste. 

• Build it green. Reduce impact from remodeling or building a new home by recycling your construction waste, using re-claimed building materials, using less toxic materials, paints and finishes, and designing your project to conserve energy.

• Compost leftover food. Composting is an easy way to reduce the amount of garbage produced per household.

• Conserve water. Check bathroom fixtures for leaks and plan for a more efficient summer irrigation.

• Handle hazardous waste properly. Reduce or eliminate use of chemicals and pesticides to fertilize lawns and gardens. Garden naturally and take leftover hazardous waste to County household collection centers free of charge.

• Volunteer in your community. The tireless efforts of volunteers play a vital role in protecting and conserving Florida’s natural resources. Help maintain and preserve the state’s greenways and trails, parks and coastal areas.

• Enjoy the great outdoors. Visit Florida’s award winning State Parks. Ask about activities and special nature programs. For more information about Florida State Parks, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org. 

• Learn about your environment. Visit one of the education centers at Florida’s Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA). Learning about the state’s coastal treasures increases understanding for the need to protect its waters and important wildlife. For more information visit www.dep.state.fl.us/coastal/. 

DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille and her staff wish Florida citizens a safe and happy New Year.