Did You Know October Is National Clean Energy Action Month?

The SCA is always looking for ways to protect the planet and the communities we serve. Out in the field, our SCA crew members learn that, when taken together, individual actions can have a huge impact.

Wondering how you can make a difference?

Here Are 10 Actions You Can Take During National Clean Energy Action Month

1. Switch To Renewable Energy

A power-generating windmill in a field of yellow flowers.

Learn what renewable sources of energy are available in your area. (Photo Credit: Dpvue for Dreamstime)

Some utility companies offer green power options. Check with your current provider to see if switching to a renewable energy plan can work for you. Or, if it makes sense for your home, go a step further and consider solar panels.

2. Reduce Energy Consumption

One filament and five LED lightbulbs.

Consider switching to LED lightbulbs. (Photo Credit: Julia Sudnitskaya for Dreamstime)

Intuitive but easily forgotten: turn off your lights, unplug your electronics, and invest in energy-efficient appliances. We love that LED light bulbs now come in a wide array of color temperatures.

3. Drive Less

A commuter on a bicycle rides next to a public transit train.

Change up your commute. (Photo Credit: Dreamstime)

We recognize that driving is impossible to avoid in some areas. Where possible, consider carpooling, biking, walking or taking public transit.

4. Give Electric Vehicles (EVs) A Try

An electric vehicle charges on a residential street.

Embrace electric vehicles. (Photo Credit: Marc Bruxelle for Dreamstime.)

Are you in the market for a new car? Get in on the electric revolution by purchasing an EV. If you’re not quite ready to buy, you can support EV infrastructure by advocating for more charging stations in your community.

5. Plant Trees

Three SCA volunteers work on planting a small fir tree.

Get your hands dirty. (Photo Credit: Hawa Images)

Many species love to be planted in the fall! (Check with your local nursery to learn what’s native to your area.) More trees = cleaner air and cooler neighborhoods.

6. Use Reusable Products

Reusable straws, a metal water bottle, and a plant in a woven reusable bag.

Just say no to single-use plastics. (Photo Credit: Zakalinka for Dreamstime)

Opt for glass and aluminum containers where possible, keep reusable shopping bags on hand, and👏 just 👏 say👏 no👏 to single-use plastic.

7. Conserve Water

Water runs from a silver faucet.

Turn off the tap. (Photo Credit: Alon Brik for Dreamstime)

Even in places where fresh water is abundant, energy is needed to pump, heat and treat it.  You can conserve water and energy by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks and using water-efficient appliances.

8. Compost

An individual places a banana peel in a backyard compost bin.

Create your own compost. (Photo Credit: Alon Brik for Dreamstime)

Hate leaky, smelly garbage? Divert your food waste into a compost bin! If composting in the backyard isn’t an option, there may be services in your area that collect food waste to compost. Composting reduces methane emissions in landfills and results in nutrient-rich food for your garden or houseplants.

9. Support Local And Sustainable Food Sources

An SCA crew member in a yellow hard hat shows off tomatoes she help grow while smiling at the camera.

Eat local. (Photo Credit: Stuart Slay)

Support your local farmer’s market and work a few vegetarian meals into the rotation.

10. Advocate For Clean Energy Policies

A group of SCA staff and crew members stand together. One person speaks into a microphone.

Use your voice. (Photo Credit: Mariah Miranda Photography)

Make your voice heard! Contact your local representatives to support policies and initiatives that promote renewable energy, reduce emissions and address the climate crisis.