5 Tips for an Eco-friendly Autumn

LEARN TO PRESERVE

Save the last of your garden’s harvest or farmers market haul and consider preserving your food. Canning and pickling veggies, and drying and storing herbs are time-tested ways to lessen food waste. Always consult the National Center for Home Food Preservation guidelines on proper procedures at nchfp.uga.edu.

BUY LOCAL

Buy seasonal ingredients from your local farmers market or purchase goods and fall decorations from local artisans. This lowers the need for long-distance food and goods transport.

MAXIMIZE YOUR HOME HEATING EFFORTS

Inspect windows and doors and address any insulation issues. Window film, heavy curtains and door stoppers can be effective tools for keeping heat inside during cold months. A new cozy sweater from your favorite local shop or thrift store is sure to help, too.

CONVERT WASTE INTO COMPOST

Turn yard and food waste into compost for use in your garden or flower beds in the spring. Compost pumpkins and other fresh fall decor on your own or at one of the City’s many food waste drop-off areas (special dumpsters will be available for pumpkins).

USE ECO-FRIENDLY COSTUMES AND DECOR

Rather than buying new costumes and decorations, get creative using items you already own or can purchase from local vendors. More than 80 percent of Halloween costumes are produced using oil-based plastics. Pro tip: Avoid fake cobweb materials as decor as they are hazardous to pollinators and wildlife.