Donald Fraser of Peterborough Green-Up sees the world as an interconnected place where the environmental, social and spiritual elements collide. When people mind the environment, they're impacting all facets of life on the planet. With temperatures soaring at this time of year, it's important to be resourceful when it comes to air conditioning in homes and watering lawns and gardens, Donald notes.

While ideally no one would use air conditioners in the first place, Donald says that's not realistic for people, particularly those who have health problems.

"Some people are going to use air conditioning no matter what," says Donald.

"For those people, it's a matter of using it wisely. It shouldn't be cranked so you're chilly." Donald suggests turning air conditioners off at night and letting open windows do the job. Also, when the air conditioning is on, don't open the windows to allow in fresh, but hot, air. "Although it smells wonderful it's horrible for the environment," he says.

As alternatives to air conditioning, Donald first recommends jumping in a pool or lake or visiting somewhere like the library or mall to cool off, instead of dropping temperatures at home. Also, he says fans are easier on the environment and if placed at opposite ends of the home can generate a flow of air. "Fans are a lot more energy-wise." In the long-term, planting shade trees on the east and south sides of a home is helpful, Donald notes.

When it comes to watering, Donald says the best time to give gardens a drink is in the morning. Evaporation occurs quickly when plants are watered during the hottest part of the day. In the evening, water sits on the garden and could cause mould to grow because the soil absorption levels are down. Residents should consider xeriscaping, a form of landscaping, which involves using plants that don't require a lot of water.

When watering, use a rain barrel to collect water instead of relying on the hose to do the job. Avoid using the rotating sprinkler system. Most of the water is lost to evaporation, Donald notes. "Be smart about watering," he says. "Don't water your driveway. It's not going to grow."

While an immaculate green lawn may look nice, it's not a wise planting choice. "We're planting a lot of species that shouldn't be there," says Donald. For example, Kentucky blue grass, which has a very short root system needs large quantities of water to be kept alive. Better alternatives, which are more native to this area, include fine fescues and perennial rye grasses because they have deeper root systems. Clover and thyme are also appropriate alternatives to traditional grass.

"You have to respect the environment," Donald says. "When I look at the environment I don't just think of the ecological would around us. I see things all interconnected. If you are to respect your environment, that includes the people around you."

For more tips, visit Green-Up's Web site at www.greenup.on.ca

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