ELMHURST COOL CITIES PLEDGE

I (We) believe in the goals of the Cool Cities Coalition to reduce Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions to protect our environment. I (We) support the City of Elmhurst taking the lead by implementing action plans for Green Vehicle Fleets, Energy Efficiency, and Renewable Energy.

I (We) believe that it is also the responsibility of every citizen to protect the environment. I (We), therefore, pledge to further our commitment to the environment by adding 3 or more of the following actions each year.

Use Less Gasoline

• Carpool whenever possible
• Ride bike or walk short distances
• Check tire pressure monthly and keep at optimal pressure for better gas mileage
• Turn off car ignition when stopped or parked for more than 30 seconds
• If you have more than one car, always drive the most fuel-efficient car
• When buying a new car, only consider the most fuel-efficient cars and especially hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs)

Energy Efficiency

• Buy energy efficient appliances and unplug appliances when not in use
• Replace at least 3 incandescent bulbs with compact florescent light (CFL) bulbs
• Wash laundry in cold or warm water
• Install a low-flow showerhead and turn off water when brushing teeth
• Turn off all lights when not in use
• Dial the heater/AC down 2 degrees in winter and up 2 degrees in summer
• Turn off oven 10 to 15 minutes before cooking time runs out; food will continue to cook without using the extra electricity

Renewable Energy

• Use human powered lawn mowers whenever possible
• Use solar powered outdoor lights
• Learn how to support renewable energy through renewable energy brokers or Tradable Renewable Energy Certificates (www.green-e.org)
• Plant a tree or a shrub

I (We) pledge that I (We) will find more ways to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle at home and at work.