Add green to your autumn color scheme

For those of you in the Northeast U.S. or other parts of the country where the ground is quickly being carpeted by a kaleidoscope of vibrant reds, golden yellows, burnt oranges and shades of brown, it’s time to start thinking green about the fall. Here are some tips for making this season as environmentally-friendly as possible:

• When it comes to clearing your yard from the fallen leaves, opt for the old-fashioned way – raking. Not only is raking better for the environment than using a gas or electric leaf blower, but it’s also good for you! Skip the trips to the gym and give yourself a good workout in the backyard. **Additional green points for not having to drive to the gym!


• Compost the leaves. Skip the whole ‘bag ‘em and drag ‘em to the landfill’ debacle. If you must do it, at least opt for biodegradable bags.


• Apples! Pumpkins! Hit the local farmer’s markets for fresh, locally grown produce before the winter snow’s move in.


• Weatherproof around the house. Insulate water pipes, seal any cracks around windows or garage walls, buy or make draft guards to keep cold air from seeping in under your doors, etc.


• Bulk up your bed with blankets and turn down the heat. Consider installing a programmable thermostat so your home can warm up a bit before you get up in the morning.


• Keep throws, blankets and shawls scattered around the house to bundle up with when you get chilly rather than cranking up the heat.


• Get a furnace tune-up and change your filters. Keeping your furnace operating at its most efficient saves money as well as helping the environment.


• Keep babies and toddlers warm in eco-friendly blanket sleepers. Opt for organic cotton, hemp or bamboo.

Aside from the images of death and evil ‘decorating’ people’s front yards and the political campaign signs littering the landscape, this is a beautiful time of year. As we look beyond all of that to the gorgeous colors gracing the trees, let’s remember it’s our duty to make sure this is a sight our grandchildren and their children will enjoy as well.

Keeping it green,

Hana