News from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

For more information contact: Lori O'Connell, 518-402-8000

New DEC “Green Living” Web Feature Has Something For Everyone

ALBANY, NY (05/21/2008; 1129)(readMedia)-- The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has unveiled a new feature on the DEC website called “Green Living”. Green Living reaches out to the public with tips, ideas and resources to help them make environmentally responsible choices. The main page can be found at www.dec.ny.gov/public/337.html or under "Public Involvement and News" on the website’s home page.

A permanent section of Green Living is “10 Things You Can Do to Help the Environment Right Now.” This section highlights quick and easy suggestions relevant to each season. The current season’s list includes topics such as refueling after dusk to reduce ozone formation and vacationing at DEC campgrounds to save gas. Ten new tips will be highlighted each season.

Another section, titled “Myth Busters” is devoted to exposing and explaining the facts related to commonly held environmental myths. A new myth will be addressed each season. The current Myth Buster responds to the question “Do septic system additives really work?”

Additional tips for the environmentally conscious can be found on pages devoted to specific topics:

• Keep Water Clean

• Save Energy and Water

• Keep Air Clean

• Use Less Toxic Products

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Compost

• Protect Fish, Wildlife and Open Space

• Connect to Nature

Suggested actions range from easy things you can do such as “Sweep sidewalks and driveways instead of hosing,” to more challenging actions as “Plant a rain garden to stop polluted run off.” This new web feature aims to demonstrate that everyone has a role in protecting New York’s environment.

-30-