The next time you hear your toilet running, take note, that could be a sign of a leak. Although you may not think much about it, your family could be wasting up to 10,000 gallons of water each year because of leaks. That’s the equivalent of about 270 loads of laundry!

When thinking about how to save energy, a great place to start is right at home. With a few smart habits, you can cut your energy costs, reduce the strain on your systems, and stay comfortable year-round.  

You don’t need expensive gadgets or complicated systems to improve your indoor air quality. In fact, some of the most effective strategies for creating a healthier living environment are simple, natural, and sustainable. By focusing on green cleaning, natural ventilation, and the power of plants, you can transform your home into a cleaner, fresher space for your family and the planet. 
 

You don’t have to be a homeowner to make your living space greener. Take Care of Texas has compiled a list of easy, renter-friendly ways to live more sustainably, without making costly upgrades to someone else’s property. 

Want to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce without the hassle of a high-maintenance garden? Indoor gardening is the perfect solution—especially when you choose the right crops and provide them with the care they need to thrive. With just a little effort, you can cultivate a productive indoor garden that provides you with herbs, leafy greens, and even fruits, right from your windowsill or countertop. 
Here’s a detailed look at the best low-maintenance fruits and veggies to grow indoors—and the best tips and tricks to help them thrive. 
 

Bathrooms can be one of the most wasteful places in our homes, behind the kitchen. From toothpaste tubes to shampoo bottles, a lot of plastic waste is generated in our bathrooms. Our bathroom routines not only produce a lot of trash, they can also waste a lot of water. Luckily, there are a few easy swaps you can make to take your hygiene routine from wasteful to waste-free.

Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is essential for the well-being of everyone in our community. While cleanliness is crucial, it is equally important to prioritize health and safety. Non-toxic cleaners offer a solution that effectively cleans your home, classroom, or office while minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals. Using materials already available will also help minimize costs and reduce waste.

Rainwater harvesting is a great way to help the environment and reduce your dependency on municipal water sources. Dry, hot summers and light winter rains have caused some Texas cities to enact water restrictions in hopes of preserving this precious resource. Luckily, Texas encourages residents to harvest rainwater to reduce the burden drought conditions cause Texas’ already limited water supply. 

There’s cold and then there’s “COLD”! The last few years have shown us that Texas is not immune from dangerous, widespread cold snaps. Here’s how you can prepare your home for such events while saving precious resources during a critical time.

Did you know that potentially harmful items could be lurking around every corner of your home? Some items as innocent as cleaning products and paint can present safety concerns if not managed properly. If generated by a household, these materials are not required to be handled as hazardous waste and can often be placed in the regular trash. However, we encourage you to dispose of these items in a more environmentally protective manner where available.