Politics & Government

Go Green in 2012

The township offers tips to be sustainable this year.

With the beginning of 2012, there is no reason not to make resolutions for our own health and well being—but why not do the same for the environment?

The Bridgewater Environmental Commission is offering several ideas for New Year's resolutions that will help residents go green in 2012.

  • Get One Reusable Shopping Bag—The use of cloth bags or bags made from recyclable materials reduces the amount of oil used to form plastic shopping bags while also reducing waste.
  • Get a Reusable Water Bottle—One person switching to a reusable water bottle prevents the disposal of 215 plastic bottles a year, and conserves an estimated 7 gallons of oil.
  • Start Recycling—Use your local curbside collection program and consumer electronic recycling program to help reduce the local waste stream.
  • Fix a Leak—Repair a water leak at your home or business and conserve not only a natural resource, but reduce your water bill.
  • Try One New Organic Food—Organic foods can be healthy and also protective of the environment.
  • Start a Compost Pile—The use of a compost pile can provide natural fertilizer for your garden and reduce your annual waste stream.
  • Start a Garden—Gardening is a great source of exercise, and can also beautify your property or be a source for home-grown fruits and vegetables.
  • Use a Rain Barrel—The construction of a rain barrel is a great family project, and can conserve water and assist in the reduction of stream bank erosion from storm water. The township will be holding “Build a Rain Barrel Workshops” in 2012—make a resolution to attend one.
  • Change One Light Bulb—Newer LED and compact fluorescent light bulbs last longer than conventional bulbs and use less energy.
  • Share Something—Sharing something as simple as a ride, skill, tool, equipment, idea or time builds community sustainability one activity at a time.

For more information on the Green Neighbor Challenge or to share your Green Resolutions, contact the environmental commission at health@bridgewaternj.gov.

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