What’s the Big Deal? With the warm weather fully unfurled, you’ve got some free time and some hot days before you. That means time off to spend at the beach, with the kids, away on vacation, whatever… You’ve got backyard BBQs, ballgames, trips to the local zoo, and a whole lot more to squeeze in, but you’re not so certain how to make sure your summer vacation is looking and feelings its greenest. So let’s lotion up and get down to business.

Top 10 tips:

1. Steppin’ light
Find local activities with low environmental impacts like a trip to the local park, woods, zoo, ballgame, or beach with friends to relax.

2. Cool and easy
Turning up the thermostat a few degrees on your AC is a great way to save tons of cash while making the planet a cooler place at the same time.

3. Up in your grill
Love to BBQ? Propane burns much cleaner than either wood or charcoal briquettes. Of course, when you’re done grilling, use natural cleaning products.

4. The local roundup
Buy food locally. Farmers markets are great places to shop, and ensure that the veggies you’re eating hot off the grill or mixed in a salad haven’t traveled thousands of miles just to reach your plate.

5. The green plate special
Use reusable dishes rather than plastics or Styrofoam.

6. Greenie bikini
Look for eco-friendly products like clothing, swimsuits, sandals, towels, and skin care.

7. Charge!
Pick up a solar backpack or device to take with you on day trips. That way, whether you’re at the beach or on the go you’ll be able to run and recharge a wide range of portable devices on solar energy.

8. No poison, please
Use products like garlic barrier to ward off mosquitoes. Traditional products certainly do the job, but they can end up turning your backyard into a deathtrap. That means birds, butterflies, ladybugs, and even the family dog gets an unhealthy dose.

9. Wet and Wise
Water usage levels are a big deal throughout much of the U.S. and the summer drought season can really make things tough. Be certain to watch what you use, water plants only when necessary, and take a few minutes to install a low-flow showerhead.

10. The greener road
Have to travel long distances to arrive at your dream destination this summer? Consider making it by road or rail rather than by plane.

By: Kenny Luna, North Babylon, NY
8.18.08 TH Exclusives (how to green your life)
Source: www.treehugger.com