Riding your bycicle to the local grocery store to get a loaf of bread.

 Driving your gas guzzler to the local grocery store to get a loaf of bread.

Less Auto-Dependent Development Is Key to Mitigating Climate Change

Idaho's Growth Patterns Fueling Increases in Vehicle Emissions

Meeting the growing demand for conveniently located homes in walkable neighborhoods could significantly reduce the growth in the number of miles Americans drive, shrinking the nation's carbon footprint.  "Being able to spend less time behind the wheel will benefit our health, our pocketbooks and the environment" said Patricia Nilsson, president of the Idaho Chapter of the American Planning Association.

The executive summary, full white paper, and regional data on the growth of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) are available at www.idahosmartgrowth.org. 

Recycling Centers

Light bulbs – check out this site and change more than ONE -- http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm

Purchase reusable canvas grocery bags - www.reusablebags.com

Walk when you can!!     Ride bicycles, scooters, motorcycles instead of gas guzzling automobiles

If looking for a new car, purchase a HIGHLY GAS EFFICIENT car NOW.

Reduce consumption of boxed and bagged food - eat more fresh fruit and veggies.  Create a compost pile out of kitchen waste.  Grow your own vegetables with the compost.

Drink TEA, hot or cold, using tea bags instead of drinking cans of soda.

Reuse and recycle plastic water bottles and containers – or better yet purchase your own plastic bottle for $2.95 and never pay $5.00 or $10.00 for a gallon of water again.

Purchase items that are made of 100% Post Consumer Recycled Material
          -- sending a message to producers and retailers. 

Vote for energy efficient public transportation.  Elect officials that focus on the environment 
         and are using IDAHO SMART GROWTH Planning.