Green tips for your spring getaway

March 27, 10:15 PMIndianapolis Green Living ExaminerEileen Dennie

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It’s spring break time!
And for those of you who are getting ready for a week away, here are some tips on how to make your getaway greener.

At home

• Turn back the hot water heater. Some heaters have a “vacation” setting.
• Turn down the thermostat. Based on the predicted weather for the coming week in Indianapolis, we felt comfortable turning the furnace off altogether.
• Turn off the water going to any leaky faucets or running toilets that you haven’t fixed just yet. Imagine how much water you’ll save over a week.
• Turn off computers and unplug everything that doesn’t need to be on while you are away.

On the road

• Check your tire pressure. Properly inflated tires get the best gas mileage.
• Take your own snacks and drinks to avoid having to buy packaged snacks or sodas in Styrofoam cups at the gas station.
• Recycle all your beverage containers once you reach your destination.

On vacation

• Choose not to have your towels exchanged daily. (You don’t wash your towels at home every day, do you?)
• Avoid fast food restaurants and all the disposable containers they use.
• Ask hotel staff about opportunities for recycling at their facility or even donating unused food to an organization in their community.
• Use rechargeable batteries in your camera.

Have a great time, but with the earth in mind!