In Our Hands

Simple ways we can all be champions of the earth.

Earn Your Eco-Hero Points

Ordinary citizens throughout the country are quickly becoming the newest superheroes in the battle to protect the earth. Rather than emerging from a phone booth dressed in a cape and tights, this new breed of superhero looks more like the person you see in the mirror each morning.

Want to be an Eco Action Hero? There are countless ways to fight pollution and waste and become a champion for a clean earth. You may know that unplugging the electronics you aren't using -- like your VCR, boom box or cell phone charger -- and turning off the power strip to your computer can save energy and money. But did you know that choosing local native plants for your garden, which thrive on the normal rainfall of your region, can save water?

From the simple decisions we all make every day to planning eco-adventures, the power to make the world a cleaner place is in our hands. Here are some ideas to help unleash the Eco Hero within you.

Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot!
Tired of squirrels, bunnies and other critters munching the tasty plants and grasses in your yard or vegetable garden? Rather than using chemical-based pesticides, try dosing your delectables with a large shaker of cayenne pepper or Liquid Fence, a natural spray made of pepper and garlic. Remember not to inhale, and to wash your hands afterward. And be sure to reapply after a heavy rain. A little "pre-seasoning" may make the vermin head for the border, and you won't turn your backyard into a toxic wasteland.

Eat Your Heart Out.
Changing your menu is another way to lighten your impact on the earth. Eating certified organic means your food has been produced without the use of persistent toxic chemicals. In turn, the soil, groundwater and nearby water supplies stay healthier -- and so do you and your family.

Growing your own or buying locally grown food also means lower energy and transportation costs. The shorter the distance your lettuce has to travel, the fresher it tastes on arrival -- with less fuel consumption and air pollution along the way.

Local farmers' markets are a great way to shop, and some area farms even deliver right to your doorstep. Many city and suburban dwellers purchase seasonal shares in CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farms. It's like subscribing to a season-long fresh vegetable delivery service.

To find farms and organics near you, go to LocalHarvest.org. You might just get your kids to eat their vegetables -- and you'll definitely get extra Eco Hero points for that.

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