Don't put toxins down the drain
Why? Everything from medication and toxic cleaning supplies to oil and paint can end up in our watershed, polluting water and harming wildlife. Long-term effects from some substances may include mutations in animals, a decrease in insect populations, and destruction of natural resources.
Resources: Household Hazardous Waste | StopWaste - Home, Work, School, What do you do with Household Chemicals? - EPA (PDF)
Avoid toxins outside
Why? Pesticides are certainly a big source of outdoor toxins, but they’re not the only culprit. Chances are you’ve used one or more of the following in your yard or garage: kerosene or lamp oil, glues, motor oil, paint thinners, solvents, propane, or wood finishes.
Resources: Household Hazardous Waste | StopWaste - Home, Work, School, What do you do with Household Chemicals? - EPA (PDF)
Volunteer for beach cleanups
Why? You’ve done what you can at the source – on the home front. Now consider dipping your toe into a new activity: a beach cleanup.
Resources: Monthly Coastal Clean Up - Community Action for a Sustainable Alameda (CASA)
Learn about native oysters
Why? Learn about this keystone species that filters 3-12 gallons of water per day per oyster, enhances habitat, and provides denitrification and shoreline protection.
Resources: Wild Oyster Project, Wild Oyster Project Presentation Slides
Remove litter in your neighborhood
Why? Maintain the beauty and cleanliness of your neighborhood by picking up litter and preventing it from polluting your community.