Every Day Is Earth Day: Week 9

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"Just because you're not sick doesn't mean you're healthy"

2/28/11:
Use care with paints and stains.
Conventional paints and stains contain harmful VOCs, fungicides, and biocides that contaminate indoor air. 
The solution? Use low-VOC, or better yet, no-VOC paints and stains.
Also look for biocide-free paints and natural pigments.

3/1/11:
Look for the WaterSense label.
When buying plumbing equipment and fixtures, look for this EPA label.
The government-sponsored WaterSense program aims to protect the future of the water supply by promoting water-efficient products and services.

3/2/11:
Eight body care toxins to avoid.
When shopping for body and hair care products, avoid these ingredients:
*  Mercury (also the mercury-based Thimerosol)
*  Lead (listed as Lead Acetate)
*  Nanoparticles
*  Placenta
*  Hydroquinone Skin Lightener
*  Phthalates
*  Petroleum Byproducts (such as 1,4-Dioxane)
*  Fragrance

3/3/11:
Get rid of conventional cleaners.
Most contain dangerous ingredients such as Formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds, harsh acids, and hormone disruptors linked to cancer, nervous system and reproductive disorders, and eye and respiratory irritation.
Use nontoxic biodegradable cleaners free of synthetic fragrance.
Don't overlook white vinegar and baking soda.

3/4/11:
Test for Lead.
If your home was built before 1970, test the paint for lead, especially if children are in the house.
Paint over lead-based paint to minimize dust and chipping.

3/5-6/11:
Recycle cardboard toilet paper tubes.
Every little bit helps.
According to http://www.idealbite.com/, the average family of four uses about 240 rolls of toilet paper a year.
All those tubes take up a lot of landfill space.
Don't throw them away. Recycle, instead.

*~ Have a Beautiful Day! ~*