September 2017: Zero Waste Green Tip

• Circulate the air. Wherever possible, crack windows open every now and then. If you install new carpeting or cabinets at home or in the office, open windows and turn on fans until the smells dissipate. Make sure that copying machines and other equipment are located in rooms that are properly ventilated.

• What about other products? Organic meat, eggs, and dairy don’t have toxins or agents believed to cause mad cow disease that non-organics might have. Organic seafood can still contain mercury and other contaminants. Avoid fish high in mercury (like tuna and swordfish). Visit www.seafoodwatch.org for guidance. Also, consider organic baby food -- children are far more sensitive to low concentrations of toxic chemicals because of their developing organs and high metabolism. And did you know that cosmetics, lotions and other personal care products labeled organic may only have a small fraction of organic ingredients? Learn more about what's in your cosmetics here.

• Most Important Produce to Buy Organic: If you are picking and choosing the organic foods you buy to keep in mind that not all organics are equal. Many fruits and veggies have been shown to have high levels of chemicals. Apples, bell peppers, celery, cherries, grapes (imported), nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, spinach, and strawberries can have high levels of pesticide residue. There are fewer health reasons for buying organic asparagus, avocados, bananas, broccoli, cauliflower, corn, kiwi, mangos, onions, papaya, pineapples, and sweet peas. They all have consistently low levels of pesticide residue. Check out the Organic Center's handy Organic Essentials Pocket Guide that you can take with you when you shop.