Does the process of becoming a more environmentally friendly person appeal to you, but every time you think about how to help the planet you become overwhelmed? It does not have to be that way. You might not realize it, but even the smallest steps you take today can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

Lake Tahoe takes great pride in its gorgeous setting and goal of conservation. If you live in one of the most beautiful locations in the world, you want to do all you can to preserve that. This list will help you take actionable steps to make real progress in the quest to create an environmentally friendly Lake Tahoe home.

THINGS YOU CAN DO AROUND THE HOUSE

Dry your clothes outside. Did you know that your dryer takes up a considerable amount of energy? You can help conserve by installing a clothes line and drying outside during the warm months of summer.

Replace your old woodstove. Smoke has contributed to a significant pollution problem in Lake Tahoe for years. Some newer woodstoves are EPA-certified, meaning they are better for the environment because they do not necessarily require the same amount of wood as their older counterparts.

Sign up for paperless billing. Imagine throwing away less junk mail and billing statements. Many companies, from credit cards to hospitals, are opting for paperless billing, meaning that you will receive an email when your bill is due rather than a paper statement.

THINGS YOU CAN DO IN THE KITCHEN

Instead of using coffee pods that go in the trash, buy plastic pods that you can fill with coffee grounds yourself. Pods typically end up in landfills because they are expensive to recycle, but you can reduce the load in your home. In fact, you can actually use the coffee grounds in your very own garden.

Drink out of your cup, not the straw. Can you imagine how many straws end up in landfills each day? A lot. If you eat out two times a week and don't use a straw, you can save more than 100 straws a year.

Use cloth grocery bags. California recently passed a law that encourages residents to use cloth bags rather than plastic bags that are not recyclable. Instead, grocery stores charge 10 cents per bag with each bag being thicker and more likely to be reused. Cloth bags help to prevent landfills from filling up with plastic or your beautiful lake from filling up with garbage.

Buy local fruits and veggies. Farmer's markets are great places to shop for locally grown produce that will taste delicious at the dinner table or for lunch at work.

Eat meat one less time per week. Meatless meals help to reduce your reliance on industries that can negatively impact the environment.

THINGS YOU CAN DO IN THE YARD

Plan landscaping to coincide with natural plants for the area. Native plants will benefit most from the soil without disturbing natural vegetation.

Instead of using pest repellents that may be harmful to local flora and fauna, it is often just as effective to plant vegetation that repels pests on its own. Oregano and sage are two common herbs that may repel pests without being poisonous to other animals.

It is always great to have a passion for the environment. Every step you take today can help to build a better future for Lake Tahoe tomorrow. Arnett & Associates, Inc. offers surveying services that take great pride in Lake Tahoe's beautiful landscape. We perform tasks the best we can to protect the local environment. Contact us to learn more about making your property a safe and eco-friendly place.