The scriptures teach us that we are stewards of the earth and its resources. The First Presidency wrote in 1983, "It is our prayer that members, through many small efforts, will make this world a safer and better place in which to live." Here are some small but significant efforts you can make to practice more environment friendly living. Through efforts such as these, you can make the world a better place for future generations.

1. Become aware: Keep track of what you throw away during a day. Develop a habit of praying or reflecting about how to simplify your life and reduce waste.

2. Buy things that last: Look for long-life lightbulbs, for instance, or products with meaningful warrantees. Consumer Reports (online at www.consumerreports.org) can help you identify products that are durable and reliable.

3. Buy recycled: Look for products that have a maximum of post-consumer content. Computer paper, toner, latex paint, paper towels, garbage bags, and styrofoam (if you have to use it at all) are available with recycled content.

4. Be energy efficient: When you go appliance shopping, look for the blue "Energy Star" label, developed by the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA to indicate energy efficient appliances. When you cook, use your microwave whenever possible; it uses less energy than your conventional oven or stovetop.

5. Turn off the tap: While you're lathering up in the shower, brushing your teeth, or scrubbing the dishes, turn the water off. It won't get cold that fast, and you'll save a considerable amount of water. And never hose your driveway down--use a broom for that.

6. Buy non-fossil fuel energy: Utah Power customers now have the option of purchasing wind power. It costs a little more (about $3 a month for 100 kilowatt hours), but as the demand for alternative energy increases, prices will decrease. Find out more at www.utahpower.net.

7. Plant trees: If your family or Church group is looking for a service project, suggest a community tree planting. TreeUtah, a non-profit organization, can help you organize this (www.treeutah.org).

8. Eat less meat: The Word of Wisdom's counsel to eat meat sparingly is not only good for your body; it's also good for the earth. Large-scale livestock production contributes to various environmental problems, including water depletion and pollution, land degradation, deforestation, and even global warming.

Some material adapted from "How to Save the World" by Dave Pollard.