What You Can Do
Beyond the community scale, sustainability goals also require individual action and can be achieved through many avenues:
- Participate in the EPA Energy Star Challenge, to conserve the amount of non-renewable energy your home uses. You can also apply for the EPA Energy Star Program -- Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency.
- Conduct and energy audit of your home, with assistance from Tucson Electric Power, in order to maximize energy efficiency. TEP also offers rebates and incentives to homeowners who invest in renewable energy alternatives.
- Utilize alternative modes of transportation to limit the number of single occupancy driving trips you make. The Town of Oro Valley Transit Services offers many solutions such as Coyote Run, Park-and-Rides, multi-use paths, and links to commuter services through Pima Association of Government's Sun Rideshare program.
- Reduce the amount of waste you produce by recycling, and purchase products made with recyclable materials. Earth911.com Recycling has a recycling database of over 100,000 recycling locations across the country to help you find where to recycle everything from packing peanuts to computers.
- Conserve potable water through rainwater harvesting and gray water use. Check out the Arizona Greywater Conservation System Tax Credit for installing a gray water system in your home.
- Replace non-native and invasive plant species with native and drought tolerant plants.
- Purchase locally grown and packaged foods, through local farmer’s markets, such as the Oro Valley Farmers' Market.
- Replace toxic materials in home with healthier alternatives. Check out this EPA brochure on avoiding toxic household products.
- Become involved in community sustainability efforts through your local Homeowner’s Association, schools, and Town government.
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