It has been said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Here are some simple steps that you can take to help the earth. Remember that the earth is something we all share, and it’s up to everyone to preserve it for ourselves and generations to come.

• Instead of driving alone in your car, find another way to get from point A to point B. Walk, ride a bike, carpool with a friend, or use public transportation, such as the DART system in the Dallas area. Riding DART is now free for all UTD students, faculty, and staff. Get your free pass at the Info Depot in the Student Union.
  
• Use energy saving appliances in your home, such as those marked with the Energy Star logo. Small amounts like a 75-watt lightbulb instead of a 100-watt one add up and save you money on your electric bill.
• Buy organic. Buy products that are labeled “Certified Organic” or “USDA Organic”. These products conform to standards that allow only natural ingredients and forbid the use of chemical pesticides, preservatives, and fillers.

• Recycle. Instead of throwing away things made of plastic, aluminum, paper, cardboard, or glass, recycle them. Recycling is typically quite easy for residents in the north Dallas/Richardson area. Most cities offer simple, convenient, curbside pickup of recyclables. Check with your city to see what you can do to recycle.
• Reuse. Try to think of new uses for old things rather than throwing them away. You might make a sculpture for an art project or build a coffee table out of old lumber. This can save a lot of money and be a great use of your creativity!
• Spread the word. Tell others how they can save the earth. Join a green organization like SEA. Register to vote and vote for politicians who care about the environment. Write your congressional representative to show how you care about the living world. Everyone has a voice, so use yours for something good!