Take the Ten Mile Pledge

What is the Ten Mile Pledge? Plan to reduce your driving by ten miles each week, reducing your driving will cut approximately 500 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

How to save ten miles a week:

1. Combine trips for errands.

2. Plan your meals and shop only once a week.

3. Carpool to work.

4. Make one day a month a car-free day. Slow down, spend time with your family, enjoy a good book in the hammock, enjoy time at home, run your errands on your bike.

5. Telecommute one day a week and reduce your weekly commuting miles.

Visit www.lighterfootstep.com for more information on the ten mile pledge.

Vote Green

Today is election day, before heading to the polls be sure to research where the candidates stand on issues that are important to you. I found a great site that allows you to decide where you stand on many political issues and compare it to the candidates views - www.votehelp.org Also when comparing the candidates be sure to investigate how green they are at www.plentymag.com Use your sample ballot to research any local elections or issues that may impact your community so you can head to the polls informed and prepared to vote.

National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week

Today is the start of National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. How can you show your support for the animal shelters and all the great work that they do?

1. Donate money or much needed supplies to your local shelter. To find your local shelter visit www.pets911.com.

2. Foster animals waiting to be adopted to help ease the overcrowding at the shelters and to help the animals up for adoption be more comfortable in home settings.

3. Donate your time - many shelters need help with dog walking or training. Dogs that are leash trained and have good manners are more likely to be adopted.

4. Donate your skills to help the shelter - they may need clerical help, photographers, help with websites for adoptions, or help with fundraising events.

5. Speak out for animals and support organizations that help protect animal rights.

6. Don't buy animals from pet stores or irresponsible breeders, save an animal's life by adopting your new friend from the shelter.

Improve Your Gas Mileage

With gas prices so high, improving your car's gas mileage is not only good for the environment it's good for your wallet. Here are some easy tips to help you out:

1. Make sure your tires are properly inflated.

2. Empty out your trunk, carrying around excess weight will increase your fuel consumption.

3. Follow your car's maintenance schedule. Proper maintenance will keep your car running efficiently.

4. Go the speed limit.

5. Avoid idling, if you are going to be waiting in your car for more than a minute, shut the car off.

6. When driving remember to practice patience as aggressive driving uses more fuel. By avoiding sudden starts or stops you will see significant fuel savings.

7. Save fuel by combining errands and planning your trips to avoid unnecessary driving.

8. Try to reduce the amount of driving you do, by choosing to bike or walk for short trips.