Good morning, Eco Geeks, here’s a double powerposting — Twofer Tuesday! — with two cool items to help you get greener in 2009.
- Get the right bulbs: Apparently not all CFL bulbs are created equal. The blessed Environmental Working Group recently published a detailed report called “Lighten Up in ‘09,” pinpointing “a few good bulbs that contain a fraction of the toxic mercury in most CFLs.” Download the EWG’s new Green Lighting Guide (PDF) for a list of the best CFLs. It’s one printable page that you can take it to the store. Bonus tip: Don’t use CFLs in closets and other locations lit for short periods. CFLs take 10 to 15 minutes to reach optimum light and energy efficiency.
- Dump your drugs, but do it safely: It’s a new year and that means it’s time for a new start for your medicine cabinet, according to the American College of Emergency Physicians, which is urging people to clean out their medicine cabinets and stock them with first-aid basics. Don’t flush those meds down the toilet, however. More than 80 percent of rivers tested recently by the U.S. Geological Service found traces of antibiotics, birth control hormones and antidepressants. See www.medicinereturn.com for a list of pharmacies that will take medicines for safe disposal or recycling, including multiple local Group Health and Bartell Drugs locations. You’ll also find a list of which medicines will be accepted.
What are you doing new in ’09 to stay or get green? I want to know. Really. Write me here to share your thoughts or — better yet — comment below.
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