Statement issued Friday by IDEM:
In addition to buying dad a new tie or grilling tool, there are many environmentally-friendly ways to show fathers your love and appreciation for them this Father’s Day.
• Instead of driving to the post office to mail dad a card, walk or ride your bike. Dad is sure to appreciate cleaner air on his special day.
• When shopping for the ingredients to make dad’s favorite meal, take a reusable bag. Each reusable bag you use could potentially eliminate an average of 1000 plastic bags over its lifetime.
• Plant a tree in dad’s honor. Not only can the shade of a planted tree help cool your home in the summer, some trees can act as windbreakers and reduce your heating bills in the winter. Shrubs and trees planted in the yard will continue to live long after the celebrations have ended. Plus dad will enjoy hooking up the swinging hammock to use in the hot summers ahead.
• Honor dad by helping out with chores around the yard such as cutting the lawn and watering plants. If using a gasoline-powered lawn mower and weed cutter, wait until after 6 p.m., when temperatures are cooler and ozone pollution is less likely to form from pollutants in the exhaust.
• Help dad with projects to conserve water. Check where the hose connects to the outside spigot; if there is a leak, you can replace the washer and use pipe tape and a wrench to tighten a loose connection. Help dad install a rain barrel to collect rain water for use in his vegetable and flower gardens. Instead of pulling out the hose to wash grass clippings off of driveways, sidewalks and steps, use a broom instead. Water plants early in the morning to prevent evaporation and conserve water.
• Consider giving dad an environmentally-friendly gift such as a solar-powered gadget or tickets to a movie or event. If he already has everything he needs, give your time to help with cleaning or cooking, or consider making a donation in his honor – it could help support a worthy cause, such as a fund that strives to protect the environment.
Adopting environmentally-friendly habits is simple and benefits the environment year round. For more environmentally-friendly tips for Father’s Day and all year long, visit www.recycle.IN.gov.
About IDEM
Established in 1986, IDEM (www.idem.IN.gov) implements federal and state regulations regarding the environment. Through compliance assistance, incentive programs and educational outreach, the agency encourages and aids businesses and citizens in protecting Hoosiers and our environment. As the agency celebrates its 25th anniversary, IDEM is highlighting environmental accomplishments and important challenges that lie ahead.
