IIRC, the only state that has a legitimate statute/rule that can be read as CDs being "illegal" is Virginia. Even then, it's a stretch. But, it's been awhile since I read about it.
Do you have a link where I could find more information? We live in ND and I tried looking up day care laws a couple months back, but I had trouble finding anything. I'd love to be able to keep using cloth so we don't have to waste money on disposables.
A lot of places simply won't because it's a hassle. I was told it's against the law. It's not. The law requires that they be able to prove a 'complete' change which mean Flips are not an option because the cover is reused. I use BG 4.0s or Fuzzibunz at daycare. For some reason they can't seem to get through a day without a leak, but that is user error because I do not have those issues at home. I'm in MN.
Thanks everyone for the great responses! I have some renewed motivation. I just ordered some cloth napkins and put some bins in our pantry to start recycling. I think I might try composting too, I've done some reading today and it doesn't seem too hard.
I do feel like we are more "green" than the average person I know, but there's definitely room for improvement.
I live in coal country, so I'm not sure about the renewable energy thing but I will look into it.
Lots of great ideas here. If you can, switch your soaps (dishes, bath, laundry) to free and clear formulas. It's one switch I've made that I love. Who wants their dishes smelling like oranges anyway? My sponge never stinks anymore either.
Composting is good if you have a garden, since you can utilize your kitchen waste. Now is a good time to start, since it takes a few months before it's ready to sow. Just remember to keep equal parts "brown" and "green" and keep it stirred up.
Consider your diet. Eating local organic is best of course, but even cutting down meat consumption to 3 or 4 times per week makes a profound difference.
Buy used whenever you can. This is a big one.
Diva cup is wonderful of course. I can't say enough good things about it.
If you use bottled waters, just stop. They are horrible for the environment, I can't think of much worse.
I think the biggest part is being aware of what you buy and what you do. Toxic in, toxic out. Each item you buy had a life before it came to you, and will continue on after you are done with it. So choose to avoid plastics and excess waste.
Teach your kids about conserving energy and water. Make a point to recycle and reuse. Make these into habits and they will become automatic.
Re: the power company's renewable programs, I'm with lala. The more customers show they want to switch sources, the more power companies will deliver that. It doesn't happen overnight and it takes everyone. Be part of the movement.
Something we're working on is throwing away less. I set a goal of using only one garbage bag per week. I know it's not huge, but it makes me think about what I'm buying at the store, less single use stuff and more packaging that can be recycled.
Post by broccolisgirl on Oct 21, 2014 22:02:46 GMT -5
Installing solar panels is a great way to reduce your dependence on the power company. The upfront cost can be quite large, but you can almost make your electric bill go away. Fixing the bigger problem is not as simple as "switching" resources.
broccolisgirl has good points, and of course the problem is very complex. I don't personally feel that solar technology is "there" as far as being practical or a real alternative on the residential level, but it's definitely a step in the right direction. Co-ops would work, but again, you need everyone on board.
My point was mainly about raising awareness. The biggest obstacle with a lot of these eco problems we're facing is that virtually no one is on board to change.
Installing solar panels is a great way to reduce your dependence on the power company. The upfront cost can be quite large, but you can almost make your electric bill go away. Fixing the bigger problem is not as simple as "switching" resources.
Do hav have programs as well to have the panels installed for free and the power company buys your excess. I don't know all the details but my friend just did this last year and is raving about it. contact your local electric company
Definitely contact them, but this varies so so much by state.
Not sure if it is mentioned but program your heating thermostats and also they have timers for things like water heaters so you can turn off while you sleeping or whatever.
I have definitely heard of this. But we have a heat pump. I have read conflicting things on whether it saves energy or not to use a programmable thermostats with heat pumps. Does anyone know for sure?
ETA: broccolisgirl does your background give you an insight into this?
Not sure what state you are in but check and see if there are any programs that offer a free Home Energy Assessment (massave is the program in MA). We did this when we bought our house last year and it was unbelievable. They sent someone out to the house the day we closed and he went through and replaced every single light bulb (over 50!), changed out the thermostats, and replaced the showerheads, all for free. Also for free, he performed a test on how much air was escaping from the house, identified where the problem spots were, and sealed them off for us. Then he gave us a detailed plan on changes we could make to the house (new appliances, etc.) to save on energy costs, as well as all the applicable incentives offered by the state.
I can't say enough good things about the program and I have referred a ton of friends/family to it.
Post by broccolisgirl on Oct 22, 2014 15:35:23 GMT -5
Beantrees, it looks like there's been a lot of development in programmable thermostats designed specifically for heat pumps. Here's what the DOE has to say on the matter... link
Another quick small change is bringing your own bags when you shop. Not just the grocery store, but everywhere.
We also line dry our clothing (weather permitting).
You could start doing family cloth (tp). It's an easy change if you already CD, since you're already doing the laundry. Even if you only use it for pee it's helpful.
Another quick small change is bringing your own bags when you shop. Not just the grocery store, but everywhere.
We also line dry our clothing (weather permitting).
You could start doing family cloth (tp). It's an easy change if you already CD, since you're already doing the laundry. Even if you only use it for pee it's helpful.
I would never have heard of family cloth if it weren't for TB :/
Another quick small change is bringing your own bags when you shop. Not just the grocery store, but everywhere.
We also line dry our clothing (weather permitting).
You could start doing family cloth (tp). It's an easy change if you already CD, since you're already doing the laundry. Even if you only use it for pee it's helpful.
Ok maybe this should be embarrassing but it seriously never occurred to me to take cloth bags to the mall. I already take them to the grocery store. Thanks!
I thought you would say that! I live in a rural area at least 15+ miles from literally everything except the post office. There isn't even a safe place for me to push a stroller down the road.
We outlawed plastic bags in our county. And if you want a paper bag it will cost you 10¢
There was talk of doing this in a nearby city. Maybe it passed, I'm honestly not sure. Some people on my FB posted that they were violating our freedom of choice. Idiots. I wouldn't mind these rules. You're paying for the bags anyway. This might reduce some waste.
We outlawed plastic bags in our county. And if you want a paper bag it will cost you 10¢
There was talk of doing this in a nearby city. Maybe it passed, I'm honestly not sure. Some people on my FB posted that they were violating our freedom of choice. Idiots. I wouldn't mind these rules. You're paying for the bags anyway. This might reduce some waste.
I was unaware that bagging choices were protected by the Constitution. Good God people are stupid.
Not a small change, but have you considered installing a wood stove? I have a love/hate relationship with mine, but it's definitely made a huge difference.
There was talk of doing this in a nearby city. Maybe it passed, I'm honestly not sure. Some people on my FB posted that they were violating our freedom of choice. Idiots. I wouldn't mind these rules. You're paying for the bags anyway. This might reduce some waste.
I was unaware that bagging choices were protected by the Constitution. Good God people are stupid.
Yep, and these same folks are pro life. Sure the government can legislate what I do with my uterus, but don't touch my plastic bags dammit! I keep them around for the entertainment.