KEY POINTS:
1. Set up a composting system or worm farm at home. The Environment Ministry, says nearly half the contents of rubbish bags taken to rubbish dumps could be composted.
2. Just say no ... to plastic bags at the supermarket check-out. Do you really need more plastic bags cluttering your home?
3. Recycle. Find out what recycling services and facilities are available in your area. When you're in a public place with no recycling take recyclable bottles and containers home to your own bin.
4. Insulate your hot water cylinder. Water heating is the single biggest energy consumer in the average home. Cut your power bill and reduce the energy your household uses by investing in a wrap for your hot water cylinder.
5. Go car-free one day each week. 1.2 million of us drive to work every day. Think what would happen if we all left our cars at home one day a week and walked, rode a bike, or used public transport instead.
6. Lose the road rage and save vital energy. If you have to drive your car, lay off the aggressive behaviour - as much as 25 per cent extra fuel is used in heavy acceleration and braking.
7. Get involved in a conservation project. Nature in your backyard is amazing, so get out and meet other people looking after it in your area. Join a local tree planting, beachcare or stream restoration group.
8. When buying new whiteware make sure you read the energy rating label so you make sure of getting the most energy efficient model.
9. Celebrate WWF's Earth Hour. On March 28 at 8.30pm people worldwide will turn out their lights for one hour to show their support for action that tackles climate change. www.earthhour.org
10. Don't make Earth Hour a one night stand - commit to switching off. Switch appliances off at the wall to increase energy savings.
- source: World Wildlife Fund NZ (www.wwf.org.nz)
