Go Green for Autumn

By Tom Last

The leaves have slowly started to change colors and in the process provide us with a beautiful natural framework, as we move through the autumn season. Leaves change color primarily due to the decrease in chlorophyll production, which is responsible for their green color. As chlorophyll breaks down, other pigments become more visible, like the yellow and orange hues, which we normally associate with the fall season. Red colors are also displayed this time of year, usually in sunny conditions. The chemical process which helps to cause the leaves to change color also helps to prepare the plant for winter, as it transitions from food production to storage.

This mosaic of colorful leaves helps to remind me how I can prepare to Go Green for this change in temperature, decreased daylight, and upcoming holidays. During this season, there are a variety of things we can do to save money and time with very little effort. In addition, we can continue our mission to Go Green and fight climate change.

Let’s start with landscaping. Instead of throwing away leaves and garden clippings, compost them. This process turns organic waste into nutrient rich soil, reducing waste and the need for synthetic fertilizers. It’s a good time to plant native species plants that can replace some of your grass lawn. Native plants provide habitat and food for local wildlife while promoting biodiversity. Grass lawns do not provide any of these benefits. Mulch your garden beds. This will help retain moisture, regular soil temperature, and prevent weed growth. By implementing these practices, you can create a beautiful, sustainable outdoor space that supports the environment and your garden’s health.

With less natural light available, it makes sense to switch to LED light bulbs or Compact fluorescent light (CFLs) bulbs. Do a house check and make sure you have changed out any incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs and replace them with LED light bulbs, which have a longer lifetime, are more durable, use less energy, produce less waste, and are safer.

With Halloween just around the corner, try to decorate your home with elements from nature and cut down on those plastic decorations. Be creative and make your own Halloween costumes and decorations. Use materials lying around the house to make a costume or go online and google “homemade Halloween costumes” for more ideas. Make a decorative wreath from twigs, pinecones, flowers, and other items found in your garden or on the beach. Finally, at the end of fall, compost the pumpkin skin so it returns to the earth, instead of winding up in the landfill.

As the weather cools, save energy by lowering the thermostat and getting used to wearing warmer clothing in your house. Just lowering your thermostat a few degrees will result in considerable savings on your energy bill each month. This is also a good time to prepare your home for heating efficiency. Seal any drafts around windows and doors and consider extra insulation. The expense to seal drafts and add insulation is well worth it, as your energy bill savings will more than make up for these costs. Schedule a “no cost” home energy assessment with New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERD). LIPA and PSEG also offer energy audits, why not take advantage of these resources.

So go out for a brisk walk (leave the car at home) and enjoy the refreshing autumn air and colorful hues that only autumn has to offer. And remember, Go Green this fall!