Sisters Saving Resources
by Associate Paula Winker and Helen Hayes, OP
The Office of Development asked you, the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, how you are preserving Congregation resources. You responded with many different ideas and practices. We thought you’d like to read some of your responses. Thank you to everyone who replied.
For the Earth
Collect rain water for plants.
Share newspapers, periodicals, and magazines.
Recycle aluminum, paper, plastic, glass, cardboard.
Use two sides of paper for notes and printing.
Use cloth instead of paper napkins.
Install low-flush toilets and flush less often.
Take shorter showers and shower less often.
Cancel newspaper subscription and get news on radio.
Keep cloth bag in car or plastic bag in pocket for shopping.
Compost fruit and vegetable waste.
Recycle batteries and electronic devices.
Stop unwanted junk mail. Go to www.reduce.org.
Energy/Utilities
Turn thermostat down in winter, up in summer.
Use cold water for laundry.
Remain on dial-up Internet connection.
Turn off lights, TV, and stereo when not in use.
Unplug appliances when not in use.
Turn off electrical strips when not in use.
Hang clothes to dry.
Use e-mail instead of phone or postal mail.
Use a fan instead of air conditioning.
Buy and use only energy-efficient light bulbs.
Disconnect extra refrigerator.
Wash full loads of dishes and clothes.
Wear more clothing layers in winter.
Keep afghans handy.
Transportation
Share rides.
Plan business trips or errands to increase destinations and decrease number of trips.
Reduce the number of cars in local community.
Limit trips to store.
Use conference calls instead of traveling for meetings.
Use bike instead of vehicle. Take a backpack.
Use public transportation where available.
Watch for low gas prices.
Buy gas where tax is lower.
Walk more often.
Keep vehicle tires properly inflated.
Food
Shop sales and on double-coupon day.
Accept gifts of food.
Buy generic or lesser-known brands.
Have meatless dishes more often.
Eat healthy foods to avoid medical visits.
Eat more fiber to feel more satisfied.
Eat more often and less.