by: Jasmin Watson-El, Public Affairs Intern, Butler County, Ohio

Even though it is wintertime, we still create air pollution, especially with all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Be green this holiday season using the tips below :

Burn smart—Natural gas and propane stoves and fireplaces are the cleanest way to warm your home through the winter. Certified wood burning fireplaces are a cleaner alternative to open fireplaces and older uncertified stoves. Duraflame logs are a great option for wood fires.

Carpool—If you are attending holiday parties or having a party of your own, encourage your guests to carpool. This is a good way to reduce fuel use and it will even save you time finding a parking spot! Carpooling is also a great way to save gas money.

Anti-Idling—Even on the coldest winter days, driving a vehicle is the most effective way to warm it up.  Idling a vehicle wastes money and gas, damages our vehicles, creates air pollution and can harm our health. With modern engines, 30 seconds of idling produces the maximum amount of heat that can be generated before driving away.

Clean the furnace and save—Clean your furnace filter monthly to help your furnace run more efficiently. After cleaning the furnace, set the heating thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature - between 66°F and 68°F is recommended. For every 1°F you set your thermostat lower, you can save 1-3% on your heating costs.

Ways to reduce particulate levels—Smog Alerts may soon become a problem in the winter, not just the summer. Recent adjustments to federal regulations have tightened the particulate matter standard, increasing the possibility for Winter Smog Alerts issued due to high particulate levels. Wintertime open burning and idling your car, combined with weather inversions, can make particulate-based Winter Smog Alerts a reality for residents.

Making a few adjustments to your activities over this holiday season and the upcoming winter months can help you conserve energy, natural resources and reduce air pollution. Use these tips and do your part to give the gift of cleaner air!

For more information, please visit us online at www.hcdoes.org

Happy Holidays from Hamilton County Environmental Services!