The movement starts at home.
Every one of us who is an advocate for a healthier planet has to be able to lead with our own commitment.  Walk the talk.

Each time we stand before an audience, or talk to our friends, we must be able to say "I conserve", and list the things we are doing.  Your credibility depends on the depth of your own personal commitment to improve.

This is the beauty of the I Conserve list -- it is an assessment of your commitment, not a prescribed list of actions.

I Conserve is based on what you are doing, and where you want to improve.  Your score reflects how good a job you feel you are doing as a conserver -- and it allows you to adapt the rating to your own situation. 

"I Conserve" can be easily replicated and distributed to your membership or at public events.  Just be sure to give the first one to yourself!

Don't be perfect.  Just better.
Becoming a conserver is much the same as deciding to exercise.  You don't run a marathon the day after you get off  the couch.  It takes time and a commitment to regular improvement. 

Set yourself realistic goals.   Do the simple and money-saving things first, and then decide how much time and money you wish to invest in becoming a better conserver. 

The "I Conserve" quiz is designed to help you assess your strengths and weaknesses as a conserver, and where you want to improve.

• view the printer-friendly version (MS Word) where you can add in your notes and print out a one page conservation plan.
   

• view a sample (the family plan for the Conservation Council of Ontario's Executive Director, Chris Winter)
   

• view the pdf version (shown at right).  You can order these cards free of charge to distribute in stores, offices, or at community events. See Spread the Message for more details.

You are not alone!  Look for community groups, municipal programs and local businesses that offer the products and services to help you achieve your goals.

Ready to take action?  

Our sister site (www.greenontario.org) is a fifteen-year old directory of programs, projects, resources and all kinds of information on a greener lifestyle.

The "I Conserve" section has factsheets with tips on all kinds of conserver solutions, such as:
(some new pages are still under construction)

At Home
     Naturalize yards and gardens
     Conserve energy
     Buy renewable energy
     Reduce waste
     Go toxic-free
     Choosing the right home

Shopping
       Buy organic and local food
     Avoid endangered seafood
     Buy green clothes
     Find a green drycleaner

Getting Around
     Transportation tips
     Choose the right car
     Go car-free

At School
     Green your school
     Green your curriculum

At Work
     Green your office

Investing
     Green your investments

At Play
     Green tourism
     Green golf