Something about the cool crispness in the air signals change!  It’s time to make some seasonal changes to keep you living green, healthy, and environmentally responsible.

One: Eat Green!  It’s a great time to plant some cool season veggies like spinach, kale, chard, and broccoli.  We have the luxury in Central Texas of a long growing season, and the shorter, cooler days are perfect planting weather for many vegetables.  Google your county + agricultural extension for a list of times and varieties for your area.  If you aren’t a gardener, check out your local farmers markets where you will find organic, local and seasonal choices.  Better for your health (no pesticides, processing, additives) and better for the environment (less fossil fuel used in transportation and production, less packaging waste).  Buying local offers the added benefit of keeping more money in your local economy!

Two: Protect your indoor air quality

Cooler weather may mean more time indoors, so make sure the air in your home supports your health.  Products we use are the source for a substantial portion of indoor air pollution. Because of this fact, it’s essential to know what’s in the products you buy and opt for the most natural and non-toxic choices.  Call me for a “how to” list for making your own housecleaning products- saves money, packaging, and you won’t be adding pollutants in your home when what you are trying to do is make it clean and fresh!

After doing your best to eliminate the source of the pollutants, you should ensure your home is properly ventilated.  Have your HVAC system serviced before cold weather arrives, and check to make sure the air exchange is working optimally so you have the right mix of fresh air coming in.  It’s amazing that our indoor air-where we spend some 90% of our time, is typically more contaminated than outdoor air.  I can recommend an HVAC specialist if you like.  You can also use an air purifier in bedrooms, or to address allergies.

Three:  Conserve Energy!

The cleanest energy is the energy that is never used, so get your home energy efficient and you won’t waste money heating the great outdoors. Get weatherstripping fixed around doors and seal around windows.  Put plug covers on plugs (they are basically holes in your walls!). Consider doing an energy audit.  They are inexpensive and will tell you where you need to spend money to save money. For most homes, it’s insulation that offers the most bang for the buck.  Programmable thermostats are a great way to manage the temperature in your home cost effectively, and if you are an Austin Energy customer, there is still a program where you can get one free.  PEC has an online Home Energy Center you can use to evaluate your usage and save money.