Every day, I am appalled by the needless waste in our community. The four common behaviors listed below seem to be particularly flagrant violations of common sense, and I encourage individuals and institutions alike to put a stop to them.
First, we need to stop running the thermostat ridiculously low in public buildings.
As Floridians, we dress for warmer weather. When I'm wearing a T-shirt and shorts, walking into a building that is cooled to 68-70 degrees is very uncomfortable. Stop giving me hypothermia, and save some money on your utilities.
Second, we need to stop sending junk mail and printing receipts. Welcome to the 21st century. I can check my bank statement online, so don't print a receipt unless I ask for one.
There's a "Do Not Call" list for telemarketers. Let's pass some legislation for a "Do Not Mail" list, too.
Next, we must stop overwatering lawns. I can't tell you how many times I've seen our beloved university and various apartment complexes watering their too-green lawns during a rainstorm. If you insist on watering at all, buy a rain sensor for your sprinkler system. The aquifer will thank you and so will your grandchildren.
Finally, stop buying products that use excessive packaging. One-hundred-calorie packs and individually wrapped cookies have to go. Buy the econo-size bag and put what you want to eat in some Tupperware.
If you haven't figured it out by now, working toward these goals won't cost you a thing, and achieving each of them would save you money.
Please conserve your resources, both environmental and financial.
