Xeriscaping

Landscaping based on native, water-efficient plants to minimize the need for irrigation. Consider xeriscaping around your home this spring.

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Windows with Low E Glass

Windows built with glass that has been treated to prevent heat or cold emission. Look for these types when replacing windows.

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Volatile Organic Compounds

Substances produced from solids and liquids that convert to gases, such as benzene and methylene chloride, that may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Avoid products that contain VOCs, which can be found in paints and adhesives.

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Renewable Energy

Energy obtained from sources that do not run out, such as wood, tidal and geothermal sources.

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Planet Friendly

Products and services that do not negatively affect the Earth and its resources.

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Linoleum

A flooring product made from natural ingredients based on renewable resources, such as linseed oil, wood flour and cork. Linoleum, not to be confused with vinyl, is degradable, has a very low volatile organic compound emission and is long lasting. Consider this product as an alternative to other flooring types.

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Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

Devices that contain chemical compounds that illuminate when they come into contact with electricity. LEDs don't require a heating filament so they burn cooler and use less electricity to produce light. They also last longer than incandescent and fluorescent bulbs.

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Greenhouse Gas

A gas that absorbs infrared radiation in the atmosphere. Reduce greenhouse gases by installing Energy Star-rated appliances, using LEDs, biking, walking or carpooling more often and buying products made of recycled materials whenever possible.

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Green Seal

A nonprofit organization that provides science-based environmental certification standards for everything from filters to air chillers.

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Gray Water

Nondrinkable water used for irrigation, flushing toilets and other purposes as a way to help conserve water and energy in the home. Gray-water sources include water from tubs, showers, non-kitchen sinks and washing machines. Consider installing a gray water recycling system, which filters the nondrinkable water and stores it in a short-term storage tank for use around the house.

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Global Warming

The gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earth's surface and atmosphere.

**There is some scientific and political debate regarding this theory**

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Fossil Fuels

Oil, natural gas and coal.

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Extensive Garden

Low-maintenance gardening areas that feature more shallow soil depths and hardier species that do not require artificial irrigation.

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Energy Star

A joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy dedicated to helping consumers save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. Look for products that have earned the Energy Star rating.

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Energy Efficiency

A product's ability to use less wasted energy but still maintain the same result, such as an energy-efficient light bulb.

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Dual-Flush Toilets

Dual-flush toilets are designed to conserve water and allow consumers to choose either a low- or full-flush capacity.

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Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs)

These bulbs contain a gas that produces invisible ultraviolet light when the gas is stimulated by electricity. Illumination is a result of the light reflecting off a white coating inside the bulb. The bulbs use less energy because the process doesn't require heating a filament to produce light. They also last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

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Chlorofluorocarbons

Used in refrigeration, insulation and aerosol propellants, these chemicals drift into the upper atmosphere and destroy the ozone layer. Look for products that are CFC free.

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Certified Sustainable Forestry

Forest owners and members of the wood and paper products industry replace trees harvested by man or that are lost to fires or disease. The Forest Stewardship Council certifies products that are produced with sustainable woods. Look for products bearing the "FSC-certified" label.

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Carbon Neutral

A process that doesn't add to the net amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Look for ways you can reduce carbon emissions, such as maintaining your car, reducing travel miles and conserving energy in the home.

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