One of the easiest ways to lower your carbon emissions and also be safe is to simply drive the speed limit. When posted maximum speeds are around 60 mph, driving that speed versus a faster 75 mph is actually 25% more gas-efficient. Faster speeds create more wind resistance, which equals more overall fuel usage. Of course, hybrid cars are even greener, and fully electric cars emit nothing at all, but driving slower means less charging is needed for the car battery over time, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

No one wants to be forced to rebuild their home because a disastrous fire destroyed it, so the Sierra Club has some important tips to help you fortify your existing home by taking steps to "fire-harden" it. This involves evaluating the whole home and investing in fireproof materials like metal and tile for the roof; ember- and flame-resistant venting; dual-paned tempered-glass windows; and walls made with stucco, fiber cement or treated wood. Even simple acts such as removing dead leaves from gutters can help fire-harden your home.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

There's one type of seafood that's affordable, nutritionally dense and even helps improve the environment: mussels. According to the National Library of Medicine, mussels are a great source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, and they produce far less greenhouse gas emissions in comparison to other protein sources such as beef, lamb and pork. Plus, they are "filter feeders," which means they remove impurities in the water around them. What a win-win!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION