Betty's Bakers Dozen (Tips for Reducing)

• Think thrice before driving. Use public transportation, walk or bike. Or reduce driving by consolidating trips.
• Be mindful about new purchases.  Do you really need it?  Have you looked at what you currently own to see if you can make something work?  There is an over-abundance of things that already exist on the planet – make creative use of them.
• Join Betty in her no-buying pledge (beginning Jan 1, 2008)
• Skip the plastic bottled water by carrying your own
• Recycle, reuse, and compost to significantly reduce your household waste
• Shop consignment or second-hand (go to Betty's directory here)
• Say NO to Junk Mail (easy - generate the letters by clicking here: New American Dream or pay someone to do it for you at 41pounds.org)
• Contact the Albemarle County Service Authority for a FREE water saving kit (434) 977-4511
• Use your LIBRARY card
• Commit to 8 actions through www.turnthetide.org. You can begin RIGHT NOW and have a big impact!
• Say no to disposables. Opt to dine where they choose to offer real forks and spoons or bring your own.
• Limit your showers to 3 minutes
• Change at least 5 old bulbs to 5 CFL (compact fluorescent bulbs), saving 60 dollars a year!