November marks the transition between the busy summer season and the busy holiday season. As we linger in this quiet month, use a day or two to prepare for winter.
Keep out the chill: Winter window tips
One of my windows was rattling this week and I realized that I hadn't shut my storm windows yet. Preparing my windows for winter went to the top of my "to do" list.
There are lots of ways to improve the efficiency of your windows during the winter. Here are tips from the U.S. Department of Energy:
If you have older windows (single pane), use storm windows and remember to shut them! Storm windows can reduce heat loss through the windows by 25% to 50%.
Use the shrink-wrap type plastic film kits on the interior to stop air infiltration around leaky windows. They are inexpensive, effective, easy to install, and easy to remove in the spring.
Close your curtains and shades at night; open them during the day.
Keep windows on the south side of your house clean to let in the winter sun.
When we think of "reducing our carbon footprint," we think about driving less and improving the efficiency of our home. Just as important, however, is being intentional about what we buy.
Luckily, there are many ways to reduce the impact of our stuff. In many cases, you will also save money and support the local economy!
Eco-shopping questions
It's easy to go eco-shopping. If there are alternatives to making a purchase, these questions will help you consider them.
Does the gift recipient need or want this?
Can I buy this used?
Can I get this with recycled content?
Can this be recycled?
Can I give a coupon to borrow or rent this instead?
If I spend a little more money today on a high-quality or energy-efficient option, could I (or my gift-recipient) save money in the long run?
Can I bring my own shopping bag and not look like a shoplifter?
Just start with small steps—a 10% reduction in new purchases in the average 2-person Minnesota household will save 1,102 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalents.
Days of our green lives: Community events and resources
Minneapolis will host a national Go Green Expo at the Minneapolis Convention Center, November 7-8.
"Green Drinks" are informal sessions for people interested in the environment to learn from each other and network, with monthly gatherings in the Twin Cities and Duluth-Superior. This month at Twin Cities Green Drinks, the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society will present information on solar hot water, November 11, 6 p.m. -7:30 p.m., at Trotter's Cafe (St. Paul).
Kick-off this holiday season at Do it Green! Minnesota's 4th Annual Green Gifts Fair. Shop local retailers and artists and learn about green holiday decorating, wrapping, food, and party ideas. November 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Midtown Global Market (Minneapolis).
Look for more events on the SEEK and NextStep calendars.
Missed an issue? Read past newsletters in our online archive.
One of my windows was rattling this week and I realized that I hadn't shut my storm windows yet. Preparing my windows for winter went to the top of my "to do" list. 
When we think of "reducing our carbon footprint," we think about driving less and improving the efficiency of our home. Just as important, however, is being intentional about what we buy. 
