Dear Editor,

In an era of global warming, pollution and dwindling resources, people from across the world are uniting to preserve the planet.

As Earth Day 2006 approaches on April 22, many of us will take a day to reflect upon our lifestyles and living situations and think of everyday ways we can help in order to put the earth first.

There are several tips that can help each of us become more earth-conscious and make smart decisions that affect our planet. David Veniot, former head of Earth Day International and now the Vice President of Sustainability for The Villages of Loreto Bay, North America's largest sustainable development, recommends a few easy lifestyle changes that will help each of us to do our part in protecting the environment. Remember, taking small measures results in big changes, and we can all make a difference and help save the world.

10 Ways to Make Your Home & Lifestyle More Eco-Friendly
(and save money too!)

1. RECYCLE. It is one of the easiest ways to do your part for the Earth. All you need to do is set up a second trash can inside or outside of your home and throw away all recyclable materials in the designated can. You can even make money by turning in the recyclable goods at the redemption center nearest you.

2. REUSE. Instead of throwing out that paper bag, why not keep it around and reuse it for your kid's lunch tomorrow? Every day we throw away large amounts of waste which we could reuse in order to reduce waste, and cut costs.

3. BE EFFICIENT. Energy efficient that is. There are several simple ways to conserve energy, the easiest of which is to be conscious. Turn off all household items which require electricity (lights, TVs, radios, computers, etc.) when you are not using them. You could also research low-energy appliances and green power suppliers to take an additional step toward becoming eco-friendly.

4. WALK. With gas prices through the roof right now, save money, preserve air quality and make the healthy choice to walk when you can - you will probably find it enjoyable!

5. REDUCE. Is it really necessary to let the shower run for five minutes before getting in? Or leave the hose running while washing your car? All day long we waste an extreme amount of water, every bit of which counts. It is an easy lifestyle change to be conscious of water consumption and reduce those amounts. And don't forget running water costs money, money which can easily be saved by turning it off.

6. ECO-GARDENING. A fun activity for you and your family might be to garden together. Designate a small plot of land and grow your own herbs, spices and even fruits and vegetables. On a micro-level, it reduces waste and saves you money. On a macro-level, it does your part in reducing harmful pesticide use.

7. VENTILATE. Every summer across the nation people crank up the air conditioning to try and get relief from the scorching sun. Although there might be relief, it will be brief once you receive the electric bill. The use of air conditioning systems forces energy use and costs to skyrocket. This summer, consider other ways to beat the heat, including opening windows for fresh air or using ceiling and floor fans to ventilate the room. If you do require an air coniditoner, only turn it on when you are home. You will save money and ultimately the environment.

8. ALTERNATIVE CLEANING. Instead of buying brand-name and over-priced household cleaners which are harmful for the environment, try purchasing lemon juice, soda crystals and a bicarbonate of soda water to get taps sparkling, dissolve grease and remove stains on work surfaces. There are several other natural cleaning products for all sorts of tough stains which I suggest researching as they are natural, more cost efficient and don't leave toxins in and around your home.

9. GET CONNECTED. In every city, state and country around the world there are organizations you can join to learn more about the environment and how you can help. Research what's in your city and join those around you in making a difference.

10. BRAINSTORM. Guaranteed if you and your family sat down for one hour, you could brainstorm ways in which you can all do your part for the environment. Whether it's the above suggestions or others you find in and around your home, please use Earth Day 2006 to reconsider your lifestyle and your home and make a conscious decision to put the earth first!

If you are interested in discussing this or sustainable tourism with David Veniot, please feel free to call me and I will arrange an interview. Additionally, below are techniques describing how The Villages of Loreto Bay is doing its part to preserve and enhance the environment they are developing. For more information, feel free to check out the Web site, www.loretobay.com.

Sustainability Performance Targets for The Villages of Loreto Bay

The Villages of Loreto Bay are being developed as a showcase for sustainable development practices. Within a long list of sustainability objectives are these three cornerstone positions:

Loreto Bay Company

Loreto Bay Company

Loreto Bay Company, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is developing The Villages of Loreto Bay, a series of seaside villages in walkable neighborhoods built near the historic fishing village of Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico. The Villages of Loreto Bay will be a showcase for sustainable development practices. Founded in 2003, the company is led by Chairman David Butterfield, President and CEO Jim Grogan and CFO Tom Nolan.

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