At the Park District, sustainability is a year-round commitment, from our facilities to our parks. Our eco-friendly initiatives include pollinator gardens, water-conserving drinking fountains, and efficient heating and cooling systems, to name just a few. Given our role within the community and environment, we recognize the responsibility we have in creating a sustainable and green future for Franklin Park. To us, that commitment also extends to providing resources for residents to lead more eco-friendly lives at home.
Being environmentally friendly does not have to be complicated. All it takes is a little creativity and determination to make a difference. If you are looking for ways to reduce your environmental footprint at home, here are 5 feasible, creative, and fun project ideas to get you started!
Idea #1: Composting
Composting is an easy way to both reduce waste at home and enrich your soil – and it’s easier than you might think!
Pick a dry, shaded spot (with an open-bottom bin if you want to use one) and layer biodegradable “browns” (leaves, sticks, mulch) with “greens” (food scraps, grass, eggshells). For successful decomposition, make sure your materials are in smaller pieces and that you turn your pile every few weeks to aerate it. Once your compost is dark and crumbly, it will be rich with essential nutrients and ready to boost your garden soil. It’s nature’s recycling at work!
Idea #2: Home Upgrades
If you are looking to roll up your sleeves on the home improvement side, you will find there are many appliances and tools you can install in your home to reduce your environmental impact. Installing low-flow water fixtures on your sinks and showers, for example, maintains performance but lessens the amount of water used. Installing proper insulation ensures your heaters and air conditioners do not work over-time to maintain a comfortable temperature. Small home upgrades can have a big impact – not only in improving energy efficiency but also reducing your utility bills.
Idea #3: Rainwater System
Collecting rainwater can be an easy and effective way to conserve and repurpose water. By simply placing a storage container below your gutters, the rainwater you collect can be used to water your plants, clean outdoor areas, or even wash your car.
Idea #4: Upcycled Home Decor
Want to flex your creative muscles? Next time, before you throw an item away, think of what you might be able to create out of it instead. That tin could make a handy new pencil holder. That empty bottle could be transformed into a decorative flower vase. With a little imagination, everyday “trash” can become useful, beautiful, and fun!
Idea #5: Green Landscaping
Even simple choices you make in your landscaping can improve sustainability. Drought-resistant and native plants as well as organic mulch require less water and maintenance. Planting trees helps shade soil to help retain water and also promotes biodiversity. Using permeable paving also helps rain soak into the ground instead of becoming runoff. By choosing eco-friendly plants and materials, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance yard that conserves resources and supports the environment.
Remember that even small steps can make a world of difference! Sustainability is a commitment, but we’re all in this together. Need more inspiration? Learn more about our sustainability initiatives here: https://fppd.netlify.app/sustainability-initiatives