Our state is known for the number of sunny days we enjoy, and now we’re also known for leading the way in solar power. The California Solar Initiative (CSI) has dedicated $2.1 billion in solar incentives for residential homes, making it easy and cost efficient for you to install solar panels. Still need convincing? See how much CO2 your home creates at carboncounter.org. If you think sunny days are wonderful now, imagine if the rays were also generating power for your home or heating your water. More...

When it comes to water waste, the toilet and clothes washer are the largest water hogs. More...

How many Californians does it take to screw in an energy efficient light bulb? The answer is just one, and the results are big. 

What’s lurking in your closet, garage, basement? Take stock of both bulky items (mattresses, appliances) and hazardous materials (old paint, insecticides, batteries). List them on the recycling page of our book or on a piece of scrap paper, then go to StopWaste.org to find out how to dispose of both types. More...

Looking for a hiatus from consumerism? Join others in the region through the Compact, a network of individual groups committed to not buying new products of any kind for a 12-month period. More...

Reducing consumption, buying things that last, buying used and recycling all your waste are great goals that are more and more achievable, particularly with the amazing resources in the East Bay. In addition to this book, check out the Bay Area Green Business Program  for a list of businesses in the region who have been certified for conserving resources and following good recycling practices. More...

Make all your own cleaners — to get started buy spray bottles and salvage washable rags from old clothes instead of paper towels. The website eco-me.com sells a basic kit and provides recipes, or get a biodegradable cleaning kit from Pleasanton-based Shaklee Company. More...

The hazardous cleaning products that may be in your cabinets are also in the air— and they may release toxins long after you’ve finished scrubbing. More...

Food scraps and food-soiled paper — including paper towels, plates, napkins and pizza boxes — can now be turned into compost in most cities in Alameda County as part of the food scrap recycling program. If available, just empty all of these items into the yard trimmings cart for weekly curbside pickup. Your scraps will be used to make a natural fertilizer for local farms to grow more food. Contact your City recycling program for more information (StopWaste.Org). Also — you can compost many of these items yourself in your backyard to make your own rich soil amendment. See the gardening section of our site or book for more. More...