Take Action! | Sustainability | SIU

Hello Saluki Green Action Team - SGATs!  

Summertime is here! The skies are blue, between fierce midwestern storms. The weather is warming with the usual Southern Illinois humidity that gives you that signature glossy summer skin. It's not sweat, it's glow, right? Everyone knows that summers in Carbondale are the best: Sunset Concerts at Shryock and two other Carbondale locations, Brown Bag Concerts in the Town Square Pavilion, hiking in the Shawnee Forest, Farmer's Markets at Murdale Shopping Center,  and floating on Little Grassy.  

How we do summertime sustainable-style is today's topic, SGAT.  

Did you know: Heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems account for nearly half of all household energy consumption? That's according to the Department of Energy.  

Take Action: Consider these energy-saving tips for staying cool in this Southern Illinois summer: 

Close your shades and conserve energy: Going out for a day? Pull your blinds and curtains closed when you leave and your house will absorb less heat from the sun. Keep your house warmer than normal when you are away and only lower the thermostat to 78 degrees when you are home.  

Cool Tip: When using the AC, turning on a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat about 4 degrees without any reduction in comfort! 

Clean it out: Check your AC filters! Clean or replace dirty AC filters for maximum efficiency. 

Think nocturnally: Wait to use heat-generating appliances like dryers and dishwashers until nighttime to minimize indoor heat on hot days. 

Grilling green: The time-honored traditions of cooking and eating outside are truly enjoyable. Plus, the   struggle between your oven and your AC can take a rest. Choose propane over traditional charcoal to reduce air pollution and choose washable plates and utensils instead of single-use items to be more sustainable. 

Other summer tips:  

Unplug: Summer is a great time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Relax and detach from electronic devices by reading a book outside in the shade! Be sure to unplug your devices and cords when not in use to conserve energy. 

Dry on the line: Use the heat of the sun to dry your clothes! Set up drying lines in your backyard or on your balcony, if your landlord permits.  

Shop at the Carbondale Famer's Market in Murdale Shopping Center: Support a vibrant local economy and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption by buying food grown here in Southern Illinois!  

Hydrate sustainably: Southern Illinois summers are hot and humid so it is important to drink lots of water, but SGATs use refillable water bottles  to reduce plastic waste! It's good for the environment, good for the bank account! 

Sources: 

https://www.treehugger.com/htgg/how-to-go-green-summer.html#top10; https://www.allconnect.com/blog/summer-energy-saving-tips-room-room-guide/

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Invite your friends to join the team, too. If they mention that you referred them when they sign up, you'll receive an extra entry in our next prize drawing. 

Keep up the great work,  
Saluki Green Action Team 
greenaction@siu.edu