Earth911 has refreshed its guide on green living practices for the fall months, offering practical advice to reduce environmental impact during cooler weather. The updated article, originally published in 2015, emphasizes energy efficiency, garden preservation, and eco-friendly habits amid shorter days and lower temperatures.
As fall arrives in northern U.S. states, with fading colors signaling winter's approach, Earth911's updated guide encourages sustainable actions to counter increased home energy use from more lighting and heating. Published on October 21, 2025, the article provides reminders like turning off lights and shortening showers year-round, while introducing 2025-specific strategies.
Key tips include preserving vegetable garden harvests before the first frost through canning, which reduces reliance on shipped produce and lowers carbon footprints. For herbs, drying and storing them ensures year-round use. Vehicle maintenance is highlighted: cooler temperatures drop tire pressure, reducing fuel efficiency, so inflating tires and rotating them extends life and improves mileage.
Home heating advice covers cleaning furnace filters every three months to prevent fires and inefficiency, plus professional servicing. Upgrading to a smart thermostat is recommended, with Energy Star data showing average savings of 8% on heating and cooling bills—about $50 annually, more in extreme climates. Devices like the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen), ecobee SmartThermostat with voice control and sensors, and Honeywell Home T9 use motion detection, geo-fencing, and learning algorithms; many integrate with utility programs, and rebates of $50-$150 can offset costs quickly.
Other suggestions: bring outdoor houseplants inside to boost indoor air quality and reduce stress; prepare yards by mulching fallen leaves, composting them, planting bulbs, perennials, trees, and shrubs for better root development; leave leaves strategically as mulch, compost, lawn fertilizer, or wildlife habitat. Embrace biking or walking in crisp weather for lower emissions and health benefits. For coziness, choose beeswax candles over paraffin to avoid petroleum byproducts, ideally from local sources.
The guide promotes these steps as accessible ways to live sustainably through winter.