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LETTER: Where have all the clotheslines gone?

From reader Terry Lowrey
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A simple thing like using clotheslines can help slow climate change, Terry Lowrey writes. Photo submitted

It wasn’t that long ago they were commonplace but in the name of convenience we have moved to clothes dryers. But in light of rapidly escalating climate change we should reconsider our decisions. Much of our modern behaviour is wasteful and putting our children’s future in jeopardy. We should all be doing what we can right now today at home to reduce our individual carbon footprint.

What we need is immediate action now and here are some energy saving tips we can adapt that will reduce our carbon footprint.

Start by turning things off that aren’t in use: lights, computer and modem, your TV or stereo for example. Put these appliances on power bars to ease this process. Use less hot water when not needed. We all waste hot water unnecessarily when cold or warm water is sufficient. Use a clothesline to dry your clothes. There is a time for clothes dryers, but when the weather is nice take advantage of it — you’ll like being outside. Even in below-freezing temperatures clothes will dry through sublimation!

Talk to others about climate change and encourage them to take action. Individually we are insignificant but if we all pull together we can move toward a brighter future. Look for new ways to save energy and share your ideas. Immediate action now as a goal to slow climate change is achievable. It will reduce our carbon footprint and save money while not unduly disrupting our lives. A little effort is all it takes. The future is worth it.

Terry Lowrey

Crescent Bay