IDEM offers tips for an environmentally-friendly, Hoosier Thanksgiving:

As menus are set and ingredients are collected in preparation for the annual Thanksgiving feast, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is suggesting Hoosiers add a few simple tasks to their to-do lists.

“During Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings this season, there are many, simple ways we can reduce waste, recycle, and help the environment,” said Thomas Easterly, IDEM Commissioner.

For holiday celebrations, these small steps can add up to a big, overall positive environmental impact:

• Avoid using disposable plates, utensils and napkins. Use regular dishes, flatware and cloth napkins instead. You’ll help keep excess waste out of our landfills during the holidays.

• Keep reusable bags handy for those quick trips to the grocery and avoid plastic bags at the checkout when bringing home last minute items.

• Collect aluminum, glass and plastic recyclables, such as vegetable cans, beverage bottles and milk jugs. By recycling, you’ll help manufacturers conserve energy and contribute to a cleaner environment. For example, recycling aluminum saves 95 percent of the energy required to make aluminum from virgin ore.

• To conserve water, make it a full load. When washing dishes or dishtowels, run your dishwasher or washing machine only when it’s full. No need to pre-rinse, either. Tests show it doesn’t help get your dishes cleaner, and you can save up to 20 gallons of water per load.

• Adjust your thermostat, power down electronics, and turn off lights when you leave the room. You’ll help the environment by conserving energy and reduce your electric bill.

For additional recycling tips during the holidays and year round, visit the Recycle Indiana website at www.recycle.IN.gov. For tips on saving the environment and saving money around the home, visit the Hoosiers Care website at www.HoosiersCare.IN.gov.