News Sound Bites and PSAs for Radio Stations
The TCEQ provides sound bites and public service announcements for the convenience of radio station.
.
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Take Care of Texas PSAs:
Other PSAs
2010 Take Care of Texas PSAs
June 2010:
June 1, 2010
Take Care of Texas
"Recycle Electronics"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that Texans now have a free and easy way to recycle their used personal computers? Thanks to a state law, computer manufacturers must offer recycling programs. Recycling conserves natural resources by recovering valuable materials that can be reused to make new products. For more information about computer recycling, log on to takecreoftexas.org. Take care of Texas – it’s the only one we've got!
2009 Take Care of Texas PSAs
July 2009:
July 6, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Pack a Waste Free Lunch"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Remember taking your
lunch to school? Well it's something that you can still do today
that saves you time, money — and helps keep the air, water,
and land clean. Packing your own lunch eliminates the drive to a
restaurant which helps reduce air-pollutant emissions. When packing
your lunch use reusable containers, instead of plastic bags that
you just have to throw away. Here's another idea — instead of
throwing out a plastic butter or yogurt container, wash it and use
it to store food for your lunch. Consider buying an insulated lunch
bag to store your food at work, instead of using a disposable sack.
To save money and reduce waste buy items in larger quantities,
instead of individually packaged items. For these and other tips to
save money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take
care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
July 6, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Pack a Waste Free Lunch"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Remember taking your lunch to school? Well it's something that you
can still do today that saves you time, money — and helps the
environment. Packing your own lunch eliminates the drive to a
restaurant, reducing air-pollution emissions. When packing your
lunch, use reusable containers instead of plastic bags that you're
just going to end up throwing away. For these and other tips to
save money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take
care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
July 13, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Change Settings"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Set your printer, copier
and fax machines to duplex, which allows printing on both sides of
the paper. This can cut paper costs nearly in half. Also,
activating standby settings on equipment can reduce energy usage
even more by keeping the power turned down when the device is not
in use. Copiers, laser printers, faxes, and other office equipment
can save up to 66 percent of their 24 hour power consumption if
powered only on during office hours. Many electronics can't be
switched off completely without being unplugged. When plugged in
these devices consume what's called "standby power" even when they
are supposedly turned off. Unplugging electronics or turning them
off using a power strip allows you to eliminate the energy used by
"standby power". For these and other tips to save money and the
environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
July 13, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Change Settings"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Set your printer, copier and fax machines to duplex, allowing
printing on both sides of the paper. This can cut paper costs
nearly in half. Using standby settings on equipment can reduce
energy usage when the device is not in use — saving up to 66
percent of their 24 hour power consumption if powered on only
during the office hours. For these and other tips to save money and
the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
July 20, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Office Supplies"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...When choosing office
supplies, choose items that can be reused. Refillable pens and
pencils, envelopes, binders, and folders are just a few of the
items that can be used over and over. Here's another tip —
find out if your office printers will accept remanufactured toner
cartridges. By using these or by recycling your own cartridges, you
can save money and reduce waste. Does your office use cameras or
flashlights? Consider investing in rechargeable batteries, along
with a battery charger. If you use compact discs to store
information, don't throw out the cases when you are done with the
disc — you can reuse those for other discs. Does your office
send and receive packages? Well think about reusing the boxes as
well as the packing materials. For these and other tips to save
money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of
Texas — it's the only one we've got!
July 20, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Office Supplies"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
When choosing your office supplies, choose items that can be
reused. Toner cartridges, refillable pens and pencils, envelopes,
binders, and folders are just a few of the items that can be used
over and over. If your office regularly sends and receives packages
consider reusing the boxes and the packing materials. For these and
other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
July 27, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Reduce Travel"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...According to a 2007
report from Texas A&M's Texas Transportation Institute, the
average driver spends an extra 38 hours of travel time and consumes
an additional 26 gallons of gas, every year, sitting in traffic. To
reduce the amount of time (and money) spent behind the wheel, look
for opportunities to work from home. Today's technology makes it
easier for you to conduct business including holding meetings, away
from the office. Here's another tip — if you have to
physiclly go in to your place of business, or attend a meeting,
consider using public transportation, when feasible. If you rent a
car while away on business look for rental companies that offer
hybrids or high-fuel economy vehicles. For these and other tips to
save money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take
care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
July 27, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Reduce Travel"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Does it seem like you're spending more and more time behind the
wheel of your car, getting to and from work? Well consider
telecommuting. Today's technology makes it easier for your to
conduct business including holding meetings, at home. If you have
to physically go in to your place of business, or attend a meeting,
consider using public transportation, when feasible. For these and
other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
June 2009:
June 1, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Mow in the Evening"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Did you know that mowing
your lawn for one hour with a gasoline-powered mower generates the
same amount of pollution as driving your car for four hours? If you
mow later in the day you'll be able to breathe a little easier
knowing your chores are done and you've helped keep the state's air
clean. Emissions from lawn mowers and leaf blowers contribute to
the formation of ground-level ozone. If you mow earlier in the day,
the lawn mover's emissions have more time to combine with sunlight
and form ozone. Mowing later in the day reduces that possibility.
Consider switching to an electric mower which can save you 73
percent in total energy costs. Another option is an old fashioned
push mower that operates pollution free, allows you to mow quietly
in the cool of the early morning, and gives you some exercise too!
For these and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
June 1, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Mow in the Evening"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that mowing your lawn for one hour with a gas-powered
mower generates the same amount of pollution as driving your car
for four hours? Mowing earlier in the day gives lawn mower
emissions more time to combine with sunlight and form ground-level
ozone. For these and other tips to save money and the environment,
visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only
one we've got!
June 8, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Buy Recycled"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Close the loop on
recycling by purchasing items made from post-consumer recycled
materials. Paper towels, tissue, and boxes are some of the most
popular products made from recycled materials. But while you might
only think of paper products, there are numerous items currently
being made from recycled content, including plastic bottles,
carpet, office products, and anything made from steel. In fact,
about 50 percent of the aluminum in beverage cans comes from used
cans that were collected and melted down to make new cans.
Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to keep a
one-hundred watt light bulb burning for almost four hours. Look for
the post-consumer content label on the items that you buy. This
symbol means that the item was made with materials collected
through recycling programs. For these and other tips to save money
and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
June 8, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Buy Recycled"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Paper towels, tissue, and boxes are some of the most popular
products made from recycled materials — but did you know that
many office products are also being made with recycled materials?
Look for the post-consumer content label on the items you buy. This
symbol means that the item was made with materials collected
through recycling programs. For these and other tips to save money
and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
June 15, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Drying Clothes"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Running a clothes dryer
for 20 minutes will cost you the same whether you have one shirt in
the machine...or ten. So when drying your clothes get your money's
worth and dry a full load. That said, don't overpack your dryer.
Clothes need to freely tumble to get maximum drying benefits.
Here's another tip — don't dry your heavy clothes, like
jeans, with the lighter-weight items, like T-shirts. Use the
moisture sensor that will automatically turn the machine off when
the clothes are done to avoid over-drying. Make sure to
periodically inspect your dryer's vent to ensure it's not blocked.
And clean the lint traps after every load to improve air
circulation and make your machine run more efficiently. By far the
best way to save energy when drying your clothes is a nice breeze
on an outdoor clothes line! For these and other tips to save money
and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
June 15, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Drying Clothes"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Running a clothes dryer for 20 minutes will cost you the same
whether you have one shirt in the machine...or ten. To get your
money's worth, dry a full load — but don't overpack the
dryer. Clothes need to freely tumble to get the maximum drying
benefits. Inspect your dryer's vent to ensure it's not blocked, and
clean the lint traps after every load to improve air circulation.
For these and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
June 22, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Idling"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Idling your car
literally gets you nowhere — and pollutes the environment.
Next time you are at the bank, or your favorite fast food
restaurant, consider parking and going inside instead of using the
drive-through. In fact, turning off the car and starting it again
when you are ready to move actually uses less gas and produces less
carbon monoxide than idling for half a minute, or more! Unnecessary
idling can also harm a car's engine components — including
the cylinders, the spark plugs, and the exhaust system. An idling
vehicle gets zero miles to the gallon. Sitting in your car with the
engine runing wastes gas. For these and other tips to save money
and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
June 22, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Idling"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Idling your car literally gets you nowhere — and pollutes the
environment. Next time you are at the bank or a fast food
restaurant, consider parking and go inside instead of using the
drive-through. Unnecessary idling can also harm a car's engine
components — plus it wastes up to a gallon of gas an hour!
For these and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
June 29, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Recycle Cell Phones"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Did you know that fewer
than 20 percent of cell phones are recycled each year? Cell phones
and accessories are made from valuable resources such as precious
metals, copper, and plastics. Recycling cell phones, as well as
PDAs, phone chargers and batteries keeps these materials from being
needlessly landfilled, and conserves natural resources — in
fact, more than 100 million cell phones are discarded every year.
If those were recycled we would save enough energy to power 194,000
Texas homes for one year! Recycle your cell phone — it's an
easy call. For more information about cell phone recycling, visit
epa.gov/cellphone. For these and other tips to save money and the
environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
June 29, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Recycle Cell Phones"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that fewer than 20 percent of cell phones are recycled
each year? Cell phones are made from precious metals, copper, and
plastics. Recycling keeps these materials out of landfills, and
conserves natural resources. For more information about cell phone
recycling, visit epa.gov/cellphone. For these and other tips to
save money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take
care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
MAY 2009:
May 4, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Maintain Your Vehicle"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...When the gas pump nozzle
clicks off automatically, do you add more gas to round off your
purchase? Or have you ever tried to top off your tank only to
overfill it and end up spilling gas down the side of your vehicle?
The fact is you need extra room in your gas tank to allow the
gasoline to expand. If you top off your tank, the extra gas may
evaporate into the vehicle's vapor recovery system — causing
your vehicle to run poorly and have high gas emissions. Gasoline
vapors are harmful to breathe and contribute to air pollution. Try
to fill up your vehicle's gas tank in the evening to prevent
emissions from building up to form smog during the day. And make
sure you properly tighten the gas cap — otherwise gas will
evaporate from your car's tank. To learn more about how to save
money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of
Texas — it's the only one we've got!
May 4, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Maintain Your Vehicle"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Get better fuel economy when you routinely maintain your vehicle.
Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by four-tenths of a
percent for every 1 pound drop in pressure of all four tires. Also
always use the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. Using
a 10W-30 motor oil in an engine designed to use a 5W-30 can lower
your gas mileage by 1-2 percent. For these and other tips to save
money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of
Texas — it's the only one we've got!
May 11, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Reuse, Recycle Computers"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Electronic waste is
growing at three times the rate of other municipal waste — in
fact, Texans discard 1.5 million computers a year. You can help by
donating your used computer or taking it to be recycled. Reusing
and recyling conserves natural resources by recovering valuable
components and materials that can be used to make new products. In
fact, an average PC (not including the monitor) is typically 40
percent steel, 30 to 40 percent plastic, 10 percent aluminum and 10
percent other materials, including copper, gold, and silver. For a
list of computer recycing centers in your area, and to learn other
tips to save money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org.
Take care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
May 11, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Reuse, Recycle Computers"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Electronic waste is growing at three times the rate of other
municipal waste. In fact, Texans discard 1.5 million computers a
year. Used computers contain components that can be reused like
steel, plastic, aluminum and copper, that can all be recycled. For
a listing of computer recycling centers in your area, and to learn
other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
May 18, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Water Wise"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Did you know that much
of the water applied to lawns and gardens is never absorbed by the
plants? The greatest waste of water results from applying it too
rapidly or too often. Water applied too rapidly is lost as runoff,
which may carry fertilizers and pesticides that pollute streams and
lakes. Water evaporates when applied to bare, unmulched soil, or in
the hot afternoon. Water thoroughly, but only as needed —
monthly for trees, and shrubs, and ground covers; every week or so
for lawns. Water early in the morning to prevent diseases and use
drip irrigation where possible to minimize evaporation. Also avoid
wasting water on sidewalks and other paved areas. For these and
other tips to save water and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
May 18, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Water Wise Landscape"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
In most landscaped areas, turf grass has the highest water demand
and the highest maintenance requirements of all plants. Alternative
plant areas and other forms of ground cover can reduce your ongoing
expenditures of time, energy, and money. Group together plants that
have similar watering needs to prevent overwatering and excessive
plant growth; and mulch around trees and bedded plants to
discourage weeds. For these and other tips to save water and the
environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
May 25, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Check Toilets for Leaks"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Did you know that more
than 25-percent of all toilets leak, wasting about 200 gallons of
water a day? — That's 73,000 gallons a year per leaky toilet!
There are a number of signs that a toilet is wasting water —
for instance if you have to jiggle the handle to make a toilet stop
running, or if the toilet starts running without being used. But
there is also what's called a 'silent leak.' Testing for this is
easy — simply add a leak detection dye tablet or a few drops
of food coloring to the tank. If the color appears in the toilet
bowl within about 15 minutes, you may have a leak. Check the toilet
for worn out, corroded or bent parts, like a bad flapper valve.
Most replacement parts are inexpensive, readily available, and easy
to install. For these and other tips to save money and the
environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
May 25, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Check Toilets for Leaks"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that more than 25-percent of all toilets leak, wasting
about 200 gallons of water a day? — That's 73,000 gallons a
year per leaky toilet! To find a toilet leak add a few drops of
food coloring to the tank. If the color appears in the toilet bowl,
you have a leak. Check the toilet for worn out parts, such as a bad
flapper valve — which is inexpensive and easy to replace. For
these and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
APRIL 2009:
April 6, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Earth Day"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...April 22nd marks the
39th anniversary of Earth Day — a day set aside to renew our
commitment to preserve and improve our environment. While there are
many activities planned across Texas to commemorate the event, you
can pledge to make it Earth Day every day — by recycling,
maintaining your vehicle, using products that are less toxic, and
reducing overall consumption. Takecareoftexas.org has set up an
online calculator, which allows you to estimate just how much
household water, energy, and money you can save by taking some
simple steps suggested on the Do Your Part page of the Web site.
These steps can help improve air and water quality, and conserve
water and energy — all while saving you money. After you make
your pledge, sign up for a free Take Care of Texas bumper sticker!
To participate in Earth Day events near you, visit earthday.gov.
Take care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
April 6, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Earth Day"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
April 22nd marks the 39th anniversary of Earth Day — a day
set aside to renew our commitment to preserve and improve our
environment. While there are many activities planned across Texas
to commemorate the event, you can make it Earth Day every day
— by recycling, maintaining your vehicle, using products that
are less toxic, and reducing overall consumption. To participate in
Earth Day events and to find an activity near you, visit
earthday.gov. Take care of Texas — it's the only one we've
got!
April 13, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Recycle Paper Products"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Did you know that Texans
dispose of enough paper products every two weeks to fill up the
Astrodome? Instead of throwing out your paper products, recycle
them. Reusing paper fibers to make new paper products is cheaper
than growing, harvesting and processing trees. In fact, recycling
one ton of paper is the equivalent of using up to 31 trees to
produce new paper and also saves up to 7,000 gallons of water and
4,000 kilowatts of electricity! When most people think of recycling
paper, they might only think of newspapers and junk mail, but most
recycling programs also accept corrugated cardboard — that's
the cardboard with the wavy insides — as well as magazines
and telephone books. Contact your local waste department to find
out what they accept or to find a paper recycling center near you,
and to learn other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
April 13, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Recycle Paper Products"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that Texans dispose of enough newspapers, cardboard
and junk mail every two weeks to fill up the Astrodome? In fact,
recycling one ton of paper is the equivalent of using up to 31
trees to produce new paper and saves up to 7,000 gallons of water
and 4,000 kilowatts of electricity! To find a paper recycling
center near you, and to learn other tips to save money and the
environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
April 20, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Replace Older Refrigerators"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Want to take the chill
out of high electricity bills? Consider buying an energy star rated
refrigerator. Energy star appliances meet the strick efficiency
guidelines set out by the EPA and the US Department of Energy
— that's good news when you consider that your home's
refrigerator consumes the most electricity of all of your household
appliances. For instance, did you know that side by side model
refrigerators can use 10-15 percent more energy than top freezer
units? Also, while automatic icemakers and through the door
dispensers are convenient, they can increase your energy use by
14-20 percent. An energy star rated refrigerator can reduce your
energy bills by as much as $180 a year. Keep your refrigerator
thermostat set between 37 and 40 degrees, and position your
refrigerator away from a heat source like an oven or direct
sunlight. For these and other tips to save money and the
environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
April 20, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Replace Older Refrigerators"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that a side by side model refrigerator can use 10-15
percent more energy than a single door unit? The right refrigerator
can take the chill out of high electricity bills. Automatic
icemakers and through the door dispensers are convenient, but they
can increase energy use 14-20 percent. Choose an energy star
refrigerator and reduce your energy bills by as much as $180 a
year. For these and other tips to save money and the environment,
visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only
one we've got!
April 27, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Avoid Over-Watering"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...How does a tuna can help
you when you're watering your lawn? Well did you know that your
yard only needs one inch of water a week to stay green? By placing
an empty tuna can on your grass when you water, you can monitor how
much is too much. When the can is full of water, so is your grass.
Watering your lawn too heavily or too often weakens it and can
cause erosion and runoff pollution. Make sure to position your
sprinkler so that the water lands on your lawn and garden, not your
curbs and sidewalks. Also the time of day you water can also help
the environment — and your water bill. Watering in the
morning will keep that water on your lawn, and reduce evaporation
in the midday heat. Keeping your hose maintained is also important.
Check your hose for any leaks, and replace any broken hose sprayers
or sprinkler heads. Broken or misdirected sprinkler heads can waste
large amounts of water. For these and other tips to save money and
the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
April 27, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Avoid Over-Watering"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Watering your lawn too heavily or too often weakens it and can
cause erosion and runoff pollution. Your yard only needs one inch
of water a week to stay green. By placing an empty tuna can on your
grass when you water, you can monitor how much is too much. When
the can is full of water, so it your grass. For these and other
tips to save money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org.
Take care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
MARCH 2009:
March 2, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Pesticides and Fertilizers"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Did you know that
residential users apply more pesticides and fertilizers than
farmers? This often results from the assumption that more is
better. The truth is that routine watering or a rainstorm can wash
away the chemical excess into storm drains or creeks —
wasting your money and endangering nearby waterways. Less toxic,
equally effective alternatives exist. For instance, when you mow,
consider leaving the grass clippings on the lawn. This acts as a
natural soil conditioner that can reduce your water usage. Also
using compost, made from food scraps, serves as a slow-release
fertilizer. If you decide to use pesticides and fertilizers, always
apply them according to the labels directions — and only use
the recommended amount. For these and other tips to save money and
the environment, visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
March 2, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Pesticides and Fertilizers"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that residential users apply more pounds per acre of
synthetic pesticides and fertilizers than farmers? More is not
better. Routine watering or a rainstorm can wash away this chemical
excess — wasting your money and endangering nearby waterways.
Always apply pesticides and fertilizers according to the label's
directions — and only use the recommended amount. For these
and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
March 9, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Collect and Use Rainwater"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Here in our state, where
water is a precious resource, every drop counts. By collecting
rainwater you can supplement your normal outdoor water use for
things such as watering your lawn and your plants during one of our
state's many dry spells. Lawn and garden watering makes up nearly
40-percent of a total household's water use, during the summer. By
collecting rainwater for outdoor use during one of the peak summer
months, you can save up to 1,300 gallons of water! In fact, if 10
percent of the roof area from Texas homes were used to harvest
rainwater, up to 27 billion gallons of water could be conserved.
Saving rainwater for outdoor use is as easy as setting up a
catchment system from your gutter into a barrel. Check with you
city's utility department to see if they offer a rainwater
catchment program. For these and other tips to save water and the
environment, visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
March 9, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Collect and Use Rainwater"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here in Texas, where water is a precious resource, every drop
counts. By collecting rainwater you can supplement your normal
outdoor water use in between one of our many dry spells. Lawn and
garden watering makes up 40-percent of a total household's water
use, during the summer. By collecting rainwater for outdoor use you
can save up to 1,300 gallons of water! For these and other tips to
save money and the environment, visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take
care of Texas — it's the only one we've got!
March 16, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Safely Dispose Hazardous Household Waste"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Springtime usually means
home improvement projects, like painting your home, working in your
garden, or fix-it-yourself auto maintenance jobs. But after the job
is over, do you know where to dispose of your used oil filters and
your pesticides? Community collection programs offer a better
disposal option for safely disposing hazardous household waste, and
other items like oil filters and pesticides. To find a collection
event in your area, call 1-800-CLEANUP, or visit one-eight-hundred
clean up dot org. There you can type in your zip code to find a
recycling center, or a collection event near you. For these and
other tips to save money and the environment, visit
TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
March 16, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Safely Dispose Hazardous Household Waste"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Springtime usually means home improvement projects, like painting
or fix-it-yourself auto maintenance jobs. But after the job is
over, do you know where to dispose of your used motor oil filters
and paint cans? Almost all hazardous household waste can be safety
disposed of in regular landfills. However, community collection
programs offer a better disposal option for safely disposing
hazardous household waste. To find a collection event in your area,
visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only
one we've got!
March 23, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Electric Lawn Mower"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Its one of the first
audible signs that warmer weather is upon us — hearing a lawn
mower. But did you know that for every hour of operation, one
gas-powered lawn mower emits 11 times more air pollution than a new
car? In fact, its estimated that 40 million American lawn mowers
consume 200 million gallons of gasoline per yearand gas-powered
garden-tool emissions account for an estimated 5-percent of the
nation's air pollution! Using an electric lawn mower instead can
save you up to 73-percent in total energy costs. Most electric lawn
mowers are quieter than gasoline powered versions, and new cordless
designs allow you to freely move about your yard without worrying
about the cords. Plus cordless electric lawn mowers run on
rechargeable batteries. Another added benefit is that electric
models start with a switch, instead of a pull-cord, for quicker
start-up. For these and other tips to save money and the
environment, visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas —
it's the only one we've got!
March 23, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Electric Lawn Mower"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
For each house of operation, one gas-powered lawn mower emits 11
times more air pollution than a new car. Forty million American
lawn mowers consume 200 million gallons of gasoline per year.
Gas-powered garden-tool emissions account for an estimated
5-percent of the nation's air pollution. Using an electric lawn
mower can save you 73-percent in total energy costs. For these and
other tips to save money and the environment, visit
TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only one
we've got!
March 30, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Low Flow Plumbing"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Did you know that the
shower is the largest single user of hot water in the home,
accounting for some 37 percent of total hot water use? By
installing a low-flow showerhead, you can reduce water consumption
by 25 to 60 percent and save energy, too. Installing just one
low-flow showerhead can save you $145 on your utility bill. And
don't forget your bathroom sink faucets, which account for more
than 15 percent of indoor household water use. Installing aerators
on faucets cuts the amount of water used by each one in half. And
by replacing an older toilet with a high-efficiency model that uses
1.3 gallons of water per flush, you can save an additional 4,000
gallons of water per year. For these and other tips to save water
and the environment, visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas
— it's the only one we've got!
March 30, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Low Flow Plumbing"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that the shower is the largest single user of hot
water in the home, accounting for 37 percent of total hot water
use? By installing a low-flow showerhead, you can reduce water
consumption by 25 to 60 percent and save energy, too. Installing
just one low-flow showerhead can save you $140 on your utility
bill. For these and other tips to save water and the environment,
visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas — it's the only
one we've got!
FEBRUARY 2009:
February 2, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Use Less Toxic Cleaning Projects"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute...Baking soda is not just
for cookies and cakes. In fact it's one versatile household
product. Dissolve four tablespoons of baking soda in one quart of
water for an all purpose cleaner. This simple recipe allows you to
keep your home spic and span, without using harsh chemicals. Have a
clogged drain? Try a plunger first, but if that doesn't work,
simply pour one half cup of baking soda down the drain, and then
add one half cup of vinegar, for a less toxic method of unplugging
your sink. Vinegar is also an all-purpose, non-toxic cleaning
substance. Combine a quart of water, with one half cup of vinegar,
and two tablesoons of lemon juice or rubbing alcohol, for an
alternative window cleaner. The next time you're tackling mildew
stains and soap scum, consider using vinegar to handle the job.
Using less toxic cleaning products can reduce pollutants in both
the air and water, and help improve the air quality in your house.
For these and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas - it's the only one we've
got!
February 2, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Use Less Toxic Cleaning Projects"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Baking soda is not just for cookies and cakes. Dissolve four
tablespoons of baking soda in one quart of water for an all purpose
cleaner. Need to unplug your sink? One half cup of baking soda,
plus one half cup of vinegar, does the trick. These simple recipes
keep your home clean, without using harsh chemicals — and
help improve the air quality in your house. For these and other
tips to save money and the environment, visit TakeCareofTexas.org.
Take care of Texas - it's the only one we've got!
February 9, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Unplug Electronics"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Heres another Take Care of Texas minute&Home electronics
account for 15 percent of household electric energy use — but
did you know that even after you turn off these devices, they could
still be using electricity? Many home electronics cannot be
switched off completely without being unplugged. They use
electricity even when they are turned off. Some home electronics
use only a few watts of power when turned off, while others will
use as much as 20 to 40 watts. This power consumption is called
standby power. Computers, printers, TVs, cable boxes, stereo
systems, even cell phone chargers are just a few of the electronics
that consume standby power. Unplugging these devices or turning
them off at the power strip will allow you to eliminate this
energy. When you replace home electronics, look for the Energy Star
label. Electronics that have earned the Energy Star label save
energy without sacrificing quality or performance. For these and
other tips to save money and the environment, visit
TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas - it's the only one we've
got!
February 9, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Unplug Electronics"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Home electronics account for about 15 percent of a household's
electricity use — but did you know that even after you turn
off these devices, they could still be using electricity?
Computers, printers, and TVs can consume what's called standby
power — using as much as 20 to 40 watts, even when they're
turned off. Unplugging these devices allows you to eliminate this
energy. For these and other tips to save money and the environment,
visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas - it's the only one
we've got!
February 16, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Buy Locally"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Heres another Take Care of Texas minute&Locally grown food
supports the regional economy, reduces refrigeration and
transportation emissions, and lessens the need for packing
materials. Texas is the second-largest agricultural state in the
United States, where farmers grow more than 60 different fruit and
vegetable crops alone. Consider buying Texas organic products that
are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
These organic products usually come from a farming system that
relies on maintaining and replenishing the soil and look for the
Texas Department of Agriculture's certified organic logo, to ensure
that you are getting these products. Most farmers' markets and
pick-your-own locations also offer organic products — it's
also a great opportunity to talk with the folks who grow your food.
Visit PickTexas.com for a location near you. For other tips to save
money and the environment, visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of
Texas - it's the only one we've got!
February 16, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Buy Locally"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Want some food for thought? Texas is the second-largest
agricultural state, growing more than 60 different fruits and
vegetable crops alone. Buying locally supports your community's
economy, reduces refrigeration and transportation emissions, and
lessens the need for packing materials. Farmers' markets offer a
variety of fresh products. Visit PickTexas.com for a location near
you. For these and other tips to save money and the environment,
visit TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas - it's the only one
we've got!
February 23, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Cut Back on Mail"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Heres another Take Care of Texas minute&Did you know that each
year junk mail produces 4 million tons of solid waste? Most junk
mail goes directly from the mailbox to the trash can without even
being opened! By taking your name off of marketing mailing lists,
you can help cut down on the amount of junk mail you receive
— and eventually throw away or recycle. Before you toss out
that instant winner sweepstakes announcement, consider reusing the
envelope or any paper inside for scrap-paper. Check with your citys
solid waste department to find out if it accepts junk mail for
recycling. Heres another idea — instead of ordering catalogs
through the mail, most stores offer online versions to help cut
back on mail you receive and throw away or recycle. Also, consider
banking and paying bills online. Most lending institutions and
utilities offer secure online statements and bill payment options.
For these and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas - it's the only one we've
got!
February 23, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Cut Back on Mail"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Each year junk mail produces 4 million tons of solid waste. In
addition to tossing your junk mail into the recycling bin instead
of the regular trash, you can take your name off mass marketing
mailing lists to help cut down on the amount your receive. Also
consider banking and paying bills online. Most lending institutions
and utilities offer secure online bill payment options. For these
and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
TakeCareofTexas.org. Take care of Texas - it's the only one we've
got!
JANUARY 2009:
January 5, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Upgrade Your Heating and Cooling System"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute. Did you know that heating
and cooling your home accounts for about 45-percent of your annual
energy expenses? In Texas, where the weather can change in an
instant, you need to make sure that your home's system is energy
efficient. Check for leaky ducts that can decrease the overall
energy efficiency of your home by as much as 20-percent. Also, by
using a properly-sized Energy Star cooling and heating system, you
can reduce your home's energy consumption by 8-percent, saving you
about 120-dollars a year, and help improve air quality. If all
Texans do this, we can reduce electrical consumption by more than
16-billion kilowatt hours per year - enough to power one-and-a-half
million average-sized homes. For these and other tips to save money
and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take Care of Texas
— It's the only one we've got!
January 5, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Upgrade Your Heating and Cooling System"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
In Texas, where the weather can change in an instant, cooling and
heating a home accounts for about 45-percent of your annual energy
expenses. Check for leaky ducts and consider upgrading to an Energy
Star cooling and heating system, which meets strict governmental
efficiency guidelines. You can reduce your home's energy
consumption by 8-percent, and save about 120-dollars a year. For
these and other tips to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take Care of Texas - It's the only one we've
got!
January 12, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Recycle Used Motor Oil"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute. Did you know that just
two gallons of recycled motor oil can produce enough energy to
either power the average Texas home for one day, cook 48 meals in a
microwave oven, blow-dry your hair at least 215 times, vacuum a
house for 15 months, or watch television for 7–12 days
straight? When changing your oil or other vehicle fluids at home,
make sure you recycle them. And never pour used motor oil down
storm drains. These same drains carry the oil directly to Texas
waterways. The used oil from one oil change can contaminate one
million gallons of fresh water — a year's supply for 50
people! For more information on how to recycle used motor oil, and
to learn other tips on how to save money and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take Care of Texas - It's the only one we've
got!
January 12, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Recycle Used Motor Oil"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
When changing your vehicles oil and other fluids at home, make sure
you recycle them. Never pour used motor oil down storm drains.
These same drains carry the oil directly to Texas waterways. The
used oil from one oil change can contaminate one million gallons of
fresh water — that's a year's supply for 50 people! For more
information on how to recycle used motor oil, and to learn other
tips to save money and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org.
Take Care of Texas - It's the only one we've got!
January 19, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Rainwater Harvesting"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute. Why use tap water to
water plants when rainwater works better? All you have to do is
harvest it! Rainwater harvesting is capturing and storing rainfall
to irrigate plants and landscapes. All you need for harvesting is a
good rainstorm and something to collect it in. It's that easy. Your
system can be simple, using contoured areas so that water flows
directly to planted areas; or sophisticated, featuring storage
systems that can contain captured water for later use, like rain
barrels. A rainwater harvesting system can collect approximately a
little over a half a gallon of water per square foot of roof area,
for every inch of rainfall. Contact your water utility provider who
may offer rebates and distribute rain barrels at a discounted price
to promote rainwater harvesting. For these and other tips to save
water and the environment, visit takecareoftexas.org. Take Care of
Texas — It's the only one we've got!
January 19, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Rainwater Harvesting"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Why use tap water to water plants when rainwater works better? All
you have to do is harvest it! Rainwater harvesting is capturing and
storing rainfall to irrigate plants and landscapes. All you need is
a good rainstorm and something to collect it in. A rainwater
harvesting system can collect a little over a half a gallon of
water per square foot of roof area, for every one inch of rainfall.
For these and other tips to save water and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take Care of Texas — It's the only one
we've got!
January 26, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Be Water Wise"
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — it's the only one we've
got!"
Here's another Take Care of Texas minute. Did you know that much of
the water applied to lawns and gardens is never absorbed by the
plants? The greatest waste of water results from applying it too
rapidly or too often. Water applied too rapidly is lost as runoff,
which may carry fertilizers and pesticides that pollute streams and
lakes. Water evaporates when applied to bare, unmulched soil, or in
the hot afternoon. Water thoroughly, but only as needed, monthly
for trees, and shrubs, and ground covers; every week or so for
lawns. Water early in the morning to prevent diseases and use drip
irrigation where possible to minimize evaporation. Also avoid
wasting water on sidewalks and other paved areas. For these and
other tips to save water and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take Care of Texas — It's the only one
we've got!
January 26, 2009
Take Care of Texas
"Be Water Wise"
Run Time: 30 sec
Outcue: "
...Take Care of Texas — It's the only one we've
got!"
Did you know that much of the water applied to lawns and gardens is
never absorbed by the plants? The greatest waste of water results
from applying it too rapidly or too often. Water applied too
rapidly is lost as runoff, which may carry fertilizers and
pesticides that pollute streams and lakes. Water evaporates when
applied to bare, unmulched soil, or in the hot afternoon. For these
and other tips to save water and the environment, visit
takecareoftexas.org. Take Care of Texas — It's the only one
we've got!
Other PSAs
June 1, 2009
Work With a Licensed Irrigator
Run Time: 60 sec
Outcue: "
"...visit TCEQirrigator.info"
This is Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Chairman Buddy
Garcia. It's estimated that more than 50 percent of landscape water
is wasted due to evaporation or runoff caused by over-watering.
Portions of Texas are experiencing drought conditions. Working with
a licenses irrigator to design, install, maintain, and operate an
efficient irrigation system will help us all conserve this most
valuable and previous natural resource. For more information, or to
find a licensed irrigator near you, visit TCEQirrigator.info.
