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Guide:

Sustainability

Sustainable Maryland Certification

October 24, 2022 - The City of College Park is pleased to announce that it received the Sustainable Maryland Certified Award during the Sustainable Maryland Awards Ceremony at the Maryland Municipal League’s (MML) Fall Conference on October 13, 2022. The City was certified at the Silver Level.  This is the fourth time that the City has received the award, after its first certification in 2013.

A total of 18 Maryland municipalities were honored at the awards ceremony. To achieve certification, municipalities are required to form a Green Team comprised of local residents, community leaders, municipal staff and officials; complete a variety of sustainability-related actions; and submit the appropriate documentation as evidence.   To achieve a Silver level, municipalities must score above 400 points; the City was certified at the Silver Level with 580 points.

 For a detailed summary of the City of College Park’s sustainability actions and certification report, please click here.

City sustainable initiatives

ONLY RAIN DOWN THE DRAIN!

In the Fall of 2021, the Committee for a Better Environment partnered with the College Park Arts Exchange to bring environmental awareness about pollution, specifically what goes down the drain ends up in our waterways. The storm drain murals depict plants and animals that are part of the Anacostia Watershed. Look for more artwork in the near future.

News Channel 4 interview on storm drain murals, August 2023 - click here.

Click here to see a storyboard and map of all the Citys' storm drain murals.

  1. Sunset on the Water

    "Sunset on the Water", by artists Maria Soboleva, Jak Lunsford, and Maddie Olek. Located at Knox Avenue at the intersection of Yale Avenue, in back of City Hall. Completed in May 2023

  2. Dog Park 1

    "Wise Mr. Toad" by artist H.K. Beall, is located at 9300 51st Avenue, at the Dog Park. Completed May 2023.

  3. Dog Park 2

    "Box Turle Speaks Up" by artist H.K. Beall, is located at 9300 51st Avenue, at the Dog Park. Completed May 2023.

  4. Rowboat and turtle

    "Our Creature Neighbors" by artist Niamh Ducey. Located at St. Andrews Place to the left of the entrance into the park. Completed May 2023.

  5. Heron Storm Drain Final

    "Rise of the Herons" by artist HK Beall, is located in the 4900 block of Berwyn Road at the Trolley Trail. Completed October 2021.

  6. Block Grid Mural

    Block Grid Mural located at the intersection of Guilford Drive and Hartwick Road. Completed September 2022.

  7. Maelstrom-web

    Maelstrom, located at the intersection of Guilford Drive and Hartwick Road.. Painted by UMD Students in the Fall of 2022.

  8. Beaver-dam-Mural-web

    Beaver dam Mural, located at the intersection of Guilford Drive and Hartwick Road.. Painted by UMD Students in the Fall of 2022.

  9. birds-in-flight-web

    Birds in flight, located at the intersection of Guilford Drive and Hartwick Road.. Painted by UMD Students in the Fall of 2022.

  10. Tiny Bubbles Lakeland Storm Drain

    "Tiny Bubbles" by artist Sierra Sigmone, located in the 8000 block of Rhode Island Avenue, beside Lakeland Community Playground. Completed September 2022.

  11. Final RI Ave Pic

    "Otters at Play" by artist Chrissy Wilkin is located in the 7500 block of Rhode Island Avenue beside the Trolley Trail. Completed September 2021

  12. Updated Art Final

    "Ambiente Anacostia" by artist Alison Lovejoy Spain, is located in front of 5207 Lackawanna Street, prior to the entrance to the Greenbelt Metro. Completed May 2022.

  13. Fish Mural

    Fish Mural, located at the intersection of Guilford Drive and Hartwick Road.. Painted by UMD Students in the Fall of 2022.

  14. Turtle Mural

    Turtle Mural, located at the intersection of Guilford Drive and Hartwick Road.. Painted by UMD Students in the Fall of 2022.

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Other Sustainability Initiatives

Better Bag Ordinance

Aims to reduce single-use plastic bag waste and litter in our local waterways and tributary system. Goes into effect September 1, 2023. Click to learn more.

Food Scrap Drop Off & Curbside Collection Programs

Divert organic materials from the landfills at our Food Scrap Drop-Off locations or via curbside collections (you must register to participate). Click to learn more.

Tree Plantings

Learn about the City's Tree Canopy Enhancement Program and much more!  Click to learn more.

Solar Panels on City Buildings

The City has installed solar panels on the City's Youth and Family Services building's roof as well as the Department of Public Works garage.

EV Stations

The City has installed several EV (Electrical Vehicle) charging stations around the City including at City Hall and the Downtown College Park Garage. 

PEPCO - In-Person Quick Home Energy Check-up

How It Works: A certified Energy Analyst will visit your home and assess the condition of the following items:

  • Insulation levels
  • Air leakage
  • Heating and cooling systems
  • Windows and doors
  • Lighting and appliances
  • Water heating equipment

TREES OF THE TROLLEY TRAIL

In the fall of 2021, the Committee for a Better Environment (CBE) rolled out a Tree Identification Program to show residents native trees along the Trolley Trail in College Park. Signs were installed and an online storyboard was created (https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/6dcf259994054ac1ae668136798d6bb7). The program will continue in 2023 with more trees being identified and the storyboard will be updated.

Scavenger Hunt
The Committee for a Better Environment created a Scavenger Hunt along the Trolley Trail. Click here for the scavenger hunt.

Green Award

Each year, the City of College Park Committee for a Better Environment (CBE) recognizes nominations for special effort made by members of the local community to protect and conserve the environment. 

In addition to commending those who have contributed in some way to a healthier environment, CBE hopes to:              

  • Increase environmental awareness. 
  • Encourage wider appreciation of nature and adoption of environmentally responsible practices.

For additional information, call the Sustainability Coordinator at  240-487-3590.

Past winners include:

  1. 2023
  2. 2022
  3. 2021
  4. 2020
  5. 2019
  6. 2018
  7. 2016
  8. 2015
  9. 2012
  10. 2011
  11. 2010
  12. 2009
  1. 2023

Girl Scout Green Award 2023girl scouts at bee hotel


Girl Scout Troup 96  (nominated by Alan Hew)

The Girl Scouts supported and participated in the City’s Spring Tree giveaway and Bee City USA’s Pollinator Week Bee Hotel Workshop. They planted a Pollinator Garden at the Permaculture Garden and built a Bee Hotel Sculpture at Calvert Road along the Trolley Trail.  




Sean Phelan Green Awardee




Sean Phelan  (nominated by Alan Hew)
For leading a beautification project at the American Legion Post 217, featuring a large pollinator garden where 150-200 native pollinator plants were planted, and a rain barrel was installed. Sean continues to add additional plants and maintains the garden.






Irene and Victor 2023 IMG_4169



Victor and Irina Yakovenko  (nominated by Anahi Espindola) 
For Environmental Leadership and Stewardship. Victor and Irina Yakovenko of Calvert Hills use solar and geothermic power, they super-insulated their home, and have a cool roof. They have high-efficiency appliances and lighting as well as high-efficiency low-E windows. They created a website where they share their knowledge and provide guidance to others.


 

 

AKA group IMG_0770



Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (nominated by Todd Larsen) 
For Environmental Leadership and Stewardship. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority has helped with several City environmental events. They helped the Tree and Landscape Board distribute trees in the Fall of 2022 and they volunteered for a Committee for a Better Environment Permaculture weeding, planting, and cleanup event in March of 2023. The group’s passion for serving the community was inspiring to see. Their members come from all over, and working with them in our community highlights their willingness to serve wherever needed.


  1. 2022

Catherine OberfieldCatherine Oberfield (nominated by Todd Larson)

Catherine resides in Berwyn and is a farmer by trade.  She runs a food scrap pickup service, Berwyn Compost. In addition, while she was a student at the University of Maryland, she assisted with the community garden located at the intersection of Fordham Rd and Rhode Island Ave, adjacent to the trolley trail in the Calvert Hills neighborhood of College Park.

 

Renee Domogauer 2022Renee Domogauer (nominated by Caroline Wick)

Renee is a long-time resident of the Calvert Hills neighborhood in College Park. For many years she has organized neighbors to plant and maintain flowers & perennials in the planters along the trolley trail in Calvert Hills. This year, she also helped coordinate planting perennials in the planters along the Old Town section of the trolley trail.


Renee has also worked persistently to reduce litter on the streets of Calvert Hills and Old Town. During the pandemic, she organized neighbors to be responsible for picking up litter along individual streets in the Calvert Hills neighborhood and collaborated with UMD students to pick up litter in the Old Town neighborhood. She also successfully advocated for more trash and recycling receptacles along the trolley trail. 

Most recently, Renee organized a refurbishing of the Little Free Library near the College Park daycare.  


Meg OatesMeg Oates (nominated by Caroline Wick)

Meg was the driving force behind starting the Calvert Hills Green Team during the pandemic. Meg organized a trash pick-up in Calvert Park, a boat tour of the Anacostia River, and many other activities. Meg recently stepped down as co-chair, but her work laid the foundation for the Green Team's current work. Recently, the Green Team removed English Ivy from trees in Calvert Park and did a trash clean-up around Calvert Hills and Old Town.

 

 

 

  1. 2021

Urs and Anihi Weber Green Award Winner 06.10.21Urs Weber and Anahí Espíndola (nominated by Caroline Wick)

Urs and Anahí are residents of the Calvert Hills neighborhood in College Park. They are receiving a Green Award because they maintain a large vegetable, herb, and wild plant garden, and happily share their understanding and enthusiasm with neighbors and passersby. After moving into the house, Urs and Anahí changed their front lawn into a garden that produces vegetables year-round. Their home is adjacent to the trolley trail and they receive many inquiries about their gardening experiences. They have inspired many to begin growing plants and food, and planting natives. Recently, Urs convened a virtual meeting for College Park residents to discuss gardening and share the neighborhood’s experiences. 

Rick Borshelt GreenAward 06.10.21Rick Borchelt (nominated by Caroline Wick)

Rick is a resident of the Calvert Hills neighborhood in College Park. He is receiving a Green Award based on his efforts to keep his neighbors informed about and connected to the natural world. Most recently, Rick contributed to the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC). Following the GBBC, Rick sent an email to the neighborhood listserv summarizing the results and providing insight about which types of birds were seen. Rick maintains a pollinator-friendly garden and he provides information about his garden to interested neighbors. In the Spring of 2020, Rick shared mint cuttings with interested neighbors. Rick also sends regular email updates to the neighborhood listserv educating neighbors about local wildlife and plants. Calvert Hills residents appreciate all that he does.

Friends of Guilford RunFriends of Guilford Run (nominated by Alexa Bely)

The student-led group Friends of Guilford Run is being awarded a Green Award for their environmental stewardship of Guilford Run, a stream running near the southern edge of the City. Guilford Run is a part of the Anacostia River watershed and ultimately flows into the Chesapeake Bay. Friends of Guilford Run is led by University of Maryland undergraduate students affiliated with Hope Lutheran Church. 

Started a few years ago by Dan LeKites and Laura Tiffany, the group is currently led by Sandra Roper and Jordan Kreh. Friends of Guilford Run have led regular cleanups of the Run, which receives a considerable input of trash from surrounding roads and development, and have also done native plantings along the banks of the stream. Through their leadership and outreach, the group has helped engage numerous people of diverse affiliations in these activities. The efforts of this group improve the beauty and environmental health of the stream, and positively impact local and downstream communities and wildlife.

Janis Oppelt 2021 wGreenAwardJanis Oppelt (nominated by Alan Hew)

Janis Oppelt is the ideal Green Resident we all strive to be.  She diligently recycles, composts, utilizes a rain barrel, and plants native plants and plantings that promote pollinators and wildlife.  Janis has participated in many community events such as cleanups, community gardening, storm drain marking, and College Park Day.  Janis served the City for many years as Chair of the Committee for a Better Environment where she led many workshops and showings of environmental films for our community.  Janis also currently serves on the local Sierra Club chapter promoting environmental issues.  


  1. 2020

Kathy Bryant - nominated for her efforts in raising environmental awareness and working to protect a wetland, located just south of the Old Town Playground and northwest of the College Park metro station, is known as the Sentinel Swamp Sanctuary and sometimes referred to as the “primordial swamp” or “frog pond."

Scott Wilson – for picking up litter throughout northern College Park.

Scott Wilson green team winner



Scott Wilson posing with award during Pandemic social distancing.

  1. 2019
  • Russell Robinette – for picking up litter throughout Berwyn on a daily basis 
  • Mr. Van & Mrs. Sangi Tluanga – for greening their home and yard and collecting litter in their neighborhood
  • Proteus Bikes – for its work in educating the community about biking and leading group bike rides to get more people riding bikes.
  • Stuart Adams – for his efforts in mobilizing opposition to a proposed development on Route 1 that would have removed a last green space.

Proteus Bikes P7290275


CBE Chair Todd Larsen presents Green Award to Laurie Lemieux of Proteus Bicycle 2019.



Russell Robinett Green Award


CBE Chairs Todd Larsen and Janis Oppelt present Green Award to Russell Robinette 2019.

  1. 2018

The award for the Environmental Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) went to La Prima Catering, a certified "green" caterer located on Berwyn Road. La Prima offers compostable plates and utensils and uses 100% renewable energy to power its kitchens.

The award for Environmentally Friendly Landscaping went to Frank and Faye Hawkins who have made their North College Park yard not only beautiful but a natural sanctuary for birds, bees and other wildlife.

The award for Environmental Achievement went to Stasia and Myron Hutchison for reducing their energy consumption, installing rain barrels and solar panels, and avoiding pesticides to combat ticks.

The award for Conservation of Natural Resources went to Girl Scout Troop #1734 and its leader Donna Weene for their monthly trash cleanups along Rhode Island Ave in North College Park. Congratulations and thank you all for being so green!

  1. 2016

College Park Litter Logo_REVISEDv2No Green Awards this year, because the group decided to have a contest for a logo design.

Congratulations to the Kathy Everett and Gina Tomko, the winners of the City of College Park's Committee for a Better Environment Litter Logo Contest! 

The Committee for a Better Environment set out to find a logo design that raised awareness of litter, proper waste disposal, and recycling in our city. 

A design contest was then held during the month of April. Designers of all ages and abilities were asked to incorporate graphic elements, characters, colors, and/or a text slogan to evoke a liter-awareness message. 

The winning submission and final design by Gina Tomko and Kathy Everett from the Non-student/Resident Category – they won $250. 

Girl Scout Troup 1734 College Park Methodist Church won second place $100 and were in the Elementary/High School student Category

Michelle Delabrer won third place $50 from the University Student Category. 


  1. 2015

No Green Award given, but the following were nominated: 

La Prima La Prima Catering, 5105 Berwyn Rd, College Park, MD 20740 (nominated by Phil Aronson) dedicated to improving our environmental impact. Currently, we offer green services for all catered events, including compostable plates and utensils and farm-to-table menus with organic, locally grown food. Environmental goals include: 

Mr. Van & Mrs Sangi Tluanga, 9300 Davidson Street, College Park, MD  20740 (nominated by Zari Malsawma)
Rain barrel, vegetable garden in the backyard, compost pile.  Sangi also collects recyclable trash for recycling as she walks the Buck Lodge trail & park.

Mr. Paul & Mrs. Rose Haldemann, 9118 St. Andrews Place, College Park, MD  20740 (nominated by Zari Malsawma)
Just went solar a couple of months ago - solar panels installed on two sides of rooftop.  Rose is dedicated to keeping her block clean by picking up trash on the road in front of her house, and keeping the picnic area in the CPW Neighborhood Park across from her house clean.

Stasia and Myron Hutchison of Cherry Hill (nominated by Mary Cook)
Examples of how they protect the environment include: installation of solar panels; use of solar panels to charge battery to run TV displaying their daughter, Caitlyn's environmental video; use of lemon and eucalyptus spray to combat ticks; turning down the thermostat in the winter and up in the summer; use of rain barrels

  1. 2012

Clay Gump: Conservation of Natural Resources

Dr. Victor Yakovenko: Environmental 3-Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Christiane Williams: Environmentally Friendly Landscaping and Beautification

Robert Boone: Other Environmental Achievements

  1. 2011

Environmentally Friendly Landscaping and Beautification:  Rick Borchelt, botanist and horticulturist, for his garden, which is registered as a National Wildlife Habitat and as a Certified Butterfly Garden; for his use of native and heirloom plants in landscaping; and for his minimal use of herbicides and pesticides. 

Conservation of Natural Resources:   Vicky Hageman for her work as a Citizens to Conserve and Restore Indian Creek (CCRIC) activist to protect Indian Creek, including coordinating clean-ups, reporting dumping violations, and instigating a storm drain awareness program.

Award for Other Environmental Achievements:  Eric Maring for his work as an environmental educator of children through music.

"Environmental 3-R's: Reduce - Reuse - Recycle":   Spellman House for its installation of 50 solar panels, a cool roof, and an energy-efficient furnace; for use of recycled materials in its fencing and outdoor furniture; and for other environmental efforts, including use of nontoxic paints, installation of a pervious crushed stone walkway, and extensive landscaping.

Jason’s Deli received an honorable mention.

  1. 2010

Russell Robinette – Litter cleanup

Joanne Calabrese – Conservation of Natural Resources

  1. 2009

Recognition but no award to Department of Public Works (3 Rs):

Boy Scout Troop 740: Environmentally Friendly Landscaping and Beautification 

David Ruppert: Conservation of Natural Resources and native tree propagation

Davey Rogner, UM student: Other. Founded the University Group on clean energy. Promoted environmental sustainability through music.

City Sustainability Plan

SUSTAINABILITY PLAN

In October of 2015, the City Council unanimously expressed support for the City Operations Sustainability Plan and requested that the City Manager begin implementation.  The plan was developed by an inter-departmental task force, created at the direction of Council in 2014.  The purpose of the task force was to develop a plan that would:

  • reduce carbon emissions and other environmental and unhealthy impacts created by City operations;
  • coordinate sustainable practices across all City operations;
  • position the City as an organization receptive to innovation and leading practices in sustainability;
  •  improve the quality of life for residents; and,
  • conserve financial and capital resources using a long-term perspective on investment.

You can download the plan by clicking here.  You can also download the Executive Summary, the Implementation Table, the Appendix, and the Resource Guide.  Please note that this plan is for City operations, and is not a community-wide sustainability plan.  

If you have comments or suggestions about the plan, feel free to contact the City Manager’s Office.  As always, you may contact your Council members to provide comments and suggestions.

Tips of the Month

  1. 2023
  2. 2022
  3. 2021
  4. 2020
  5. 2019
  1. 2023

August 2023: Grocery Shopping Tips

July 2023: Scoop Poop for a Better Environment

June 2023: Bring Your Own Bag

May 2023: Go Green with your Dry Clean

April 2023: Cost-saving incentives

March 2023: Start your seedlings now!

February 2023: Cut back on food waste

January 2023: Shuttle - UM 

  1. 2022

December 2022: The Impacts of Gas Stoves on Indoor Air Quality 

November 2022: Pollution's impact on our local waterways  

October 2022: Install a heat pump: save money and reduce carbon pollution!

September 2022: It’s a fact: You can really make a difference. 

August 2022: Removing Poison Ivy and Invasives

July 2022: Save money on your air conditioning bill this summer! 

June 2022: Eco-friendly Mosquito Control

May 2022: What is Green Cleaning?

April 2022: Clover instead of Grass

March 2022: How to Deal with Mice and Other Pests

February 2022: Turn Down Your Thermostat

January 2022: Natural Ice Control

  1. 2021

December 2021: Storm Drain Murals

November 2021: Storm Drain Murals

October 2021: Leave the Leaves

September 2021: Make your next lawn mower electric or push

August 2021:  Keep Cool

July 2021: Heating and Air Conditioning Systems

June 2021:  Repair it Yourself

May 2021: Cicadas

April 2021: Trees and Cicadas

March 2021: Pollinator Conservation

February 2021: It's Time To Plan Your Garden

  1. 2020

December 2020: Eco-Friendly Holiday

•    Lighting: Don't forget holiday lights when upgrading to LED bulbs. They are brighter, consume 80 percent less energy than incandescent lights and tend to last 25 times longer, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

•    Wrap with Flair: Instead of traditional wrapping paper or gift bags use fabric, old maps, fancy magazine pages, or calendars pictures. If you do use traditional wrapping paper and boxes, please remember to recycle all but metallic wrapping paper.

•    Think about giving those on your list experiences like concert tickets or local restaurant gift cards. Or better yet choose a Symbolic Gift for something meaningful and unique, give a gift that gives back to the community. Charitable gifts in honor of friends and loved one is a great way to put your values – and theirs – in action. The College Park Food Bank and Meals-on-Wheels are both local organizations helping those in need right here in College Park.

•    Instead of store-bought décor, use pinecones, vines or branches from your garden to bring nature’s beauty inside.

•    Incorporate more plant-based foods into your meal traditions — it’s good for your health and good for lowering your carbon footprint.

•    Reduce food waste. Every year 30% - 50% of food produced gets wasted, along with the water, energy and labor it takes to make it. Cutting back on food waste is one of the biggest ways you can reduce your personal carbon footprint.


November 2020: Weatherization Tips

Check your gutters. Prevent ice dams by cleaning out your gutters, installing gutter guards (if feasible) and making sure the attic is properly insulated.

Protect the pipes. Protect against frozen pipes by insulating those that could be susceptible to freezing.

Seal the cracks. Caulk around holes and openings to help prevent cold air from seeping in. Install weather stripping and seals around openings such as windows, doors, air conditioners and mail chutes.

Stop the slips. Keep driveways and sidewalks clear of ice and snow and repair any issues with steps and handrails.

Keep it warm. Set your thermostat for at least 65 degrees and make sure your house or apartment is well-insulated.

Have heating checked. Furnaces, boilers and chimneys should be serviced at least once a year to clear any buildup and to keep them running efficiently.

Test your detectors. Residential fires are more common in winter, so it is important that all of your smoke detectors work. Check them monthly and replace batteries as needed. You should also consider installing a carbon monoxide detector to avoid inadvertently trapping this toxic gas in your home.

Clear the yard. Keep the trees trimmed and remove dead branches and debris from your yard. Ice, snow and wind can weaken trees and cause branches to fall and potentially damage your home, car or even yourself and others.

Drain and store your hose. Remove all attached garden hoses, drain them and store them away. Shut off the valves and insulate the faucet.

 

September 2020: It’s easy to power your home with renewable energy!

Did you know that you can choose your electricity provider?  And you can choose to get your power from solar or wind.  Switching an average home to renewable electricity can have the climate impact of preserving 6 acres of forest.

It’s easy to find renewable energy providers and easy to switch.  Just go to MD electric choice https://www.mdelectricchoice.com/shop/ and enter your utility and your estimated monthly kWh of electricity used (you can get that off your most recent electric bill).  On the next screen, you can refine your results to choose providers that use renewable energy.  You’ll see many options and can choose one based on the percentage and type of renewable energy, as well as price and terms.  Once you make the switch, your power lines will still be serviced by Pepco and you’ll still get a Pepco bill that will include charges from your new provider for electric generation and transmission charges from Pepco.


August 2020: Mosquito Control

Avoid spraying toxic chemicals in your yard to fend off mosquitoes.  Instead you should reduce the standing water in your yard and use an effective repellent.

There are four repellents approved by the EPA to fight insects.

DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535, an amino acid that interferes with mosquitoes' sense of smell. The EPA considers DEET and picaridin "conventional repellents" and oil of lemon eucalyptus and IR3535 as "biopesticide repellents," which are made from natural materials.

The EPA offers these guidelines for the safe use of insect repellents:

•    Repellents should be applied only to exposed skin and/or clothing. Do not use under clothing.

•    Do not apply near eyes and mouth, and apply sparingly around ears.

•    When using sprays, do not spray directly into your face; spray on hands first and then apply to your face.

•    Never use repellents over cuts, wounds, or irritated skin.

•    After returning indoors, wash treated skin and clothes with soap and water.

DEET is considered the most effective insect repellent, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agrees. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends DEET not be used on infants less than 2 months old. The label on products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus warns against use on children younger than age 3.


June 2020: Native Plants

Our state is home to at least 400 species of native bees that are essential to plant reproduction and food production. You can do your part to support pollinators by  planting native plants and flowers of different shapes, sizes, and colors.  And, to keep pollinators alive and healthy, refrain from using herbicides and pesticides on your lawn and garden.  

The University of Maryland Extension has more helpful information, click here to go to their website.


February 2020: Melting Ice the environmentally friendly way

Common de-icers are cheap and effective, but threaten the health of soil systems, waterways, and wildlife when the snow melts. De-icing salts are also notorious for burning the paws of dogs and cats, and are highly corrosive to driveways, cars, and roads.

Here are some ideas for more environmentally friendly de-icing techniques:

•    Look for the words “Pet Safe” on de-icer products. Pet safe de-icers are commonly made from calcium magnesium acetate, calcium chloride, or potassium chloride, are non-toxic, and will not harm the environment, your driveway, your pet’s paws, or your children. In fact, the minerals present in pet safe de-icers will fertilize the soil and plant systems the de-icer comes into contact with.

•    If you suspect it will snow or ice-up overnight, flip up your windshield wipers and put a tarp over your car’s windshield, roof and rear window, then lower the wipers down onto the tarp. Open the car doors and tuck the tails of the tarp into the car to keep it in place. In the morning, If it is a light dusting or a little ice, just open your doors, flip the wipers back up and remove the tarp. The ice and snow should come off easily.


January 2020: Appliance Recycling Program

How to Participate

Schedule a recycling pick-up today!

Call us at 877.743.3117.

 Eligibility

•    You must be a Pepco customer with an active residential account in Maryland.

•    You must own the appliance, and refrigerators and freezers must be 10 to 30 cubic feet.

•    Room air conditioners and dehumidifiers are only eligible for pick-up at the same time as a scheduled refrigerator or freezer pick-up.

•    The refrigerator, freezer, room air conditioner and/or dehumidifier must be emptied, plugged in and in working (cooling) condition at the time of pick up. Room air conditioners must also be removed from the window prior to pick up.

•    The appliance must be picked up from the address listed on your Pepco account.

•    Limit of two large appliances (refrigerators and/or freezers) and two small appliances (room air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers) per residential account per year.

•    An adult, 18 years or older, must be present at the time of collection.

Get an Appliance Rebate: EmPOWER Maryland programs are funded by a charge on your energy bill. EmPOWER programs can help you reduce your energy consumption and save you money. To learn more about EmPOWER and how you can participate, click here.

Contact: 866-353-5798


  1. 2019

December 2019: Make Your Own Leaf Mulch

Save yourself some raking this fall - and help your garden at the same time! 

Fallen leaves can be used to make leaf mulch, which can provide many benefits to the trees and other plants in your garden. Simply rake leaves into a pile, into a wire cage, or even just around your trees. The leaves will slowly break down through natural processes to make leaf mulch. To spead up the process, you can mow the leaves to break them into smaller pieces. 

 

November 2019: Composting Pumpkins

If you compost in your backyard, add your pumpkin. It is helpful if you smash or cut pumpkin into several pieces to quicken the time it takes to break down, although it’s not necessary. Pumpkins are high in nitrogen and considered a “green” when composting.

If you don’t compost at home you can still divert your pumpkins from the landfill by bringing them to the food scrap drop off at Public Works, 9217 51st Avenue, College Park. Look for the yellow bins.

 

October 2019: Shrink your Carbon Footpring

Here are some of the easiest ways you can start to shrink your carbon footprint through changes in behavior regarding food. 

  • Eating mostly fruits, veggies, grains, and beans. Livestock—meat and dairy—is responsible for 14.5 percent of manmade global greenhouse gas emissions, mainly from feed production and processing and the methane that beef and sheep belch out. Every day that you forgo meat and dairy, you can reduce your carbon footprint. 
  • Choose organic and local foods that are in season. Transporting food from far away, whether by truck, ship, rail or plane, uses fossil fuels for fuel and for cooling to keep foods in transit from spoiling.
  • Buy foodstuffs in bulk when possible using your own reusable container.
  • Reduce your food waste by planning meals ahead of time, freezing the excess and reusing leftovers.
  • Compost your food waste, either in your backyard or through the drop off site located at Public Works. 

 

September 2019: Preserve Your Garden Goodies 

Before the first frost hits your vegetable garden, preserve as much of your harvest as possible. In case you haven’t heard, canning is cool again, and for good reason. Canning provides you with fruits and vegetables during the months when they can’t be grown in your region, reducing your reliance on produce shipped in from distant warm-weather climates (which adds to your carbon footprint). If you’ve been growing herbs, dry and store them for use throughout the colder months.

Bring In the Houseplants

If your houseplants spent the summer outside, don’t forget to bring them in before it gets too cold. If you don’t have any houseplants, maybe now is a good time to consider getting one or two. Not only do plants brighten up the interior of your home, they will also help clean the air. Since most of us in cooler climates open the windows less frequently in the winter, houseplants can do a lot to improve your indoor air quality.

 

August 2019: Clover

Time to give up and let the clover take over! Clover doesn’t need to be mowed, watered, weeded or fertilized, and it’s softer than grass.

  • Nitrogen fixer. As a legume, clover works symbiotically with bacteria to fix atmospheric nitrogen and make it available to both itself and neighboring plants. That’s why even lawn grasses grow better when clover is present.
  • Less fertilizer. A lawn containing clover needs far less fertilizer, and a 100% clover lawn needs none.
  • Drought Resistant. With its deep roots, clover will remain green through drought, as your neighbor’s lawns turn brown.
  • No mowing. A pure clover lawn doesn’t need mowing, but if you do decide to mow, you’ll only need to do so 3 or 4 times a year.
  • No aerating. Clover can grow in and loosen compacted soil, eliminating the need to aerate.
  • No herbicide. If you’re concerned about a uniform looking patch of green, you don’t have to worry about other “weeds.” Clover tends to smother them as is somewhat invasive.
  • Ground cover. Clover makes an excellent ground-cover for food crops.
  • Beneficial pollinators and wildlife.  Clover produces attractive white flowers that attract beneficial pollinators likes bees and butterflies and provide forage for rabbits (and humans).
  • Repels pests. A lawn rich in clover tends to discourage pesky insects, most of which prefer grasses. Grubs will disappear entirely in an all-clover lawn.
  • Sun or shade. Clover grows well in both sun and partial shade.
  • Dogs can pee on it. Clover doesn’t turn yellow when dogs pee on it.

 

July 2019: Lighting

Save money with better light bulbs.  If you switch out your incandescent bulbs for LEDs, you could save at least $75 per year.  You'll use 75% less energy for your lighting, which is good for the planet and for your wallet as well.

Source: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/lighting-choices-save-you-money/how-energy-efficient-light  

 

June 2019: Choose Paint Colors to Save Energy

Dark colors absorb light and will make the room warmer.  Light reflect light and will make the room cooler.  The following chart shows the percentage of light reflected by various colors:

White                80%      

Light Ivory         71%

Beige                66%

Ivory                 59%      

Peach               53%

Salmon             53%

Pale Green        51%

Medium Gray    43%

Pale Blue          41%

Deep Rose       12%

Dark Green       9%

 

May 2019: Avoid Invasive Plants – Choose Natives!

Spring is here! As you consider your garden plantings, avoid invasive species and choose native plants. Nearly 85% of the U.S. is privately owned, which means that the choices we make on our individual private properties really add up!

Common invasive species to discourage in your yard include japanese honeysuckle, forsythia, english ivy, creeping euonymus, and bamboo.

Many native plants are beautiful and do well in gardens. Native plants are well-adapted to our area and are part of the natural ecosystem. To learn more about native plants, check out the Maryland Biodiversity Project at https://www.marylandbiodiversity.com/index.php. Interested in purchasing native plants? Chesapeake Natives (http://chesapeakenatives.org/), a Maryland non-profit, sells plants native to this area at their nursery and through monthly plant sales.   

 

April 2019: Fertilizers

Use the Right Mix of Nutrients 

  • Avoid overusing fertilizers. 
  • Do a soil test to determine the mineral needs of your soil and apply the necessary amendments. 
  • Research the nutrient needs for your plants before fertilizing. 
  • Apply no more than 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn.

Watch the Weather 

  • Never apply fertilizer before it rains. 
  • Fertilize only once in the fall for cool season lawn grasses like fescue. 
  • Fertilize on calm days.

 

March 2019: Recycle Your Textiles!

Did you know, the Council for Textile Recycling estimates that the average American throws away more than 70 pounds of clothing and other textiles each year? That's a lot of clothes that go into the landfill!

Unwanted clothing and textiles do not belong in the trash. Items that are dry and odorless should be donated regardless of their condition. Don't forget - donations can be tax deductible! Many large-scale non-profit textile collectors have relationships with secondary markets that purchase unsellable clothing for use as wiping rags and for industrial fill material.

 

February 2019: Recycling

Recycling is a great way to reduce your impact on the planet, but did you know that if you try to recycle items that are not accepted in the curbside recycling program you’ll do more harm than good?


January 2019: Green Cleaning 

Want to save money and go green cleaning your house? Use vinegar as your cleaner! Both apple cider and white vinegar work well, and apple cider vinegar smells better. 

Just mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a bit of lemon juice as a disinfectant. Shake it up and spray it on surfaces to clean them. You’ll get a clean house without harsh chemicals. Just don’t use it on granite or other porous stone surfaces that are harmed by acidic cleaners.

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