• Keep track of your energy usage. Every week, check your electric meter (kW-h), your car's odometer (miles), and how much gas you buy for your vehicles. It makes you more aware of your usage, and in turn it's a really fast way to keep tabs on just how much energy you're saving! ~ John in Walnut Creek

• Get paid for your old cell phone. Recycle your old cell phone at Greenphone.com and earn as much as $35! ~ TK from LaFayette

• Do it late at night! Start your washer/dryer/dishwasher right before going to bed when demand is lower and the rates are less. You'll notice quite a difference in your utility bills. ~ Sylvia in Danville

• Stay in tune. Getting regular tune-ups, maintenance, and having clean air filters will help you burn less gas, pollute less, and prevent car trouble down the line. Pump up: if every Americans tires were properly inflated we could save around 2 billion gallons of gas each year! (Check your manual for optimal pressure). Lastly, get the junk out of the trunk!  All that extra weight is sapping your fuel economy. ~ David in Moraga

• Plant a tree. Come on! You know trees make our hometown more beautiful! They can increase property values, and can save you up to $250 annually in energy costs. Hey, they even absorb pollution! ~ Brenda in Concord

If you'd like to submit your own ideas, tell us with an email to: gogreen@kkdv.com