For Earth Month, consider starting a modest compost pile. Composting is more than just a gardening tool; putting food scraps down the garbage disposal uses water and electricity and requires processing at the treatment plant. Imagine all the energy that requires!

It’s Earth Month – plant a tree! Along with improving air quality, did you know that planting trees could help lower your energy bill? When planted strategically around the south and west sides of your home, tree shading could lower your air conditioning use by up to 25%!

Earth Month is here! Challenge yourself this month to minimize your energy usage. Normally spend your evenings watching TV or surfing the web? Use that time instead to read, go outside, or explore one of Sunnyvale’s very own parks – the planet (and your mood) will thank you!

Did you know your home can lose a significant amount of heating/cooling through air gaps behind outlets and light switches? Don’t let your money leak away—install some inexpensive foam gaskets to block air leaks and save money. Better yet, borrow a DIY Energy Saving Kit to use the FREE gaskets inside! DIY Kits are available at the Sunnyvale Library, Columbia Neighborhood Center, and Sunnyvale's Environmental Services Office (505 W Olive Ave, Suite 130).