Be Cool: Plant Trees

It doesn't take a meteorologist to know that it's hot out there! This week, we'll share tips to help you beat those triple digit temperatures without warming up the planet any further.

Tip #4: Plant Trees

As a long-term solution to an over-heated house, plant trees to create shade. You are also creating a carbon sink at the same time. These trees can also serve as a windbreak in the winter. If you cannot plant trees where you live, escape the heat of your house by spending some time in your local park to take advantage of trees there. Take part in a local tree-planting event to offset some of the carbon emissions from cooling your house.

There are a range of modifications that can make your home more comfortable. These changes can be as small as switching out incandescent bulbs, which radiate heat and suck up energy, to CFL or LED light bulbs, and as big as weatherizing your entire house.

Read More:

When Trees Draw: Arboreal Art

Can Urban Trees Fight Crime?

Congresswoman Speaks for the Shade Trees

--By Laura Hayden/iStock image/moshimochi