This list, based on US averages and research by the Union of Concerned Scientists, indicates where consumers can make the biggest difference.

How can I make the greatest difference?

Transportation: Our daily driving causes over 40% of the toxic air pollution attributable to consumer's.

1. Choose a place to live that reduces the need to drive. The next time you move, try to live near the places you drive most -office, schools, stores, bus stops, etc. Less time in your car means more time for yourself and loved ones.

2. Think twice before purchasing another car. Manufacturing one more car takes a toll on the environment. Owning another car may also tempt you to drive more. Try alternatives like carpooling.

3. Choose a fuel-efficient, low polluting car. Choose the right size car for your daily use. You can rent or borrow a van or small truck when you do things like go camping or go to the dump. Not driving over 55 mph on the highway reduces your pollution dramatically.

4. Set a concrete goal for reducing your travel. Go on a gasoline diet. Keep track of your monthly miles and shoot for twenty percent less. Combining many errands on a well planned route can make a big difference.

5. Whenever practical, walk, bicycle, carpool or take public transit. Try different ways of getting around. You may find some enjoyable enough to do them more often. Try to get out of the habit of jumping in the car every time you need to get somewhere.

Food: Raising our food accounts for over 70% of the water consumers utilize.

6. Eat less meat. Meat production is harder on the environment than any other food. Check natural food stores and restaurants for tasty, nutritious alternatives to meat for a healthier planet and a healthier you.

7. Buy certified organic produce. Organic farming uses methods that have a much lighter impact than conventional farming. Buying produce from local farms, farmer's markets and locally owned stores can also help build our local economy. Check out Sonoma County Farm Trails at www.farmtrails.org.

Household Operations: The amount of fossil fuels burned to run your home is roughly equal to driving your car.

8. Choose your home carefully. When you move, do not choose a bigger house than necessary. Every square foot requires more energy and materials to build and maintain. At libraries and bookstores you'll find many inspiring books on creating cozy, happy and environmentally friendly homes.

9. Reduce the environmental costs of heating and hot water. Consider a more efficient heating or hot water system. Set your thermostat and hot water heater lower and make sure your house is well insulated and sealed. Treat yourself to a nice sweater and warm socks.

10. Install efficient lighting and appliances. When you buy appliances, check the energy efficiency labels. The most efficient types will make the biggest difference in the environment and your pocketbook. Also try using a clothesline or replace some of your lights with the new compact fluorescent lights.

11. Choose an electricity supplier offering renewable energy. In California and some other states you can now choose who supplies your electricity, many offering renewable energy choices. It's easy; check out wattagemonitor.com.

Society: Your help can make a difference in solving environmental problems.

12. Learn more and get involved in local and global environmental issues. It is empowering to share your time, talents and passions with others who have common interests and concerns. Sustainable Sonoma County can help you find a place to get involved.

You don't have to turn your life upside down tomorrow. Keep doing what you do for the environment now, and try to do more over time. Every step counts. It's a process that leads to different solutions for each person.

To find out more about the ideas behind this list, read "The Consumer's Guide to Effective Environmental Choices: Practical Advice From The Union of Concerned Scientists", by Michael Brower, Ph.D., Warren Leon, Ph.D., and The Union of Concerned Scientists, Three Rivers Press, New York, 1999.

To calculate your Ecological Footprint, that is, to find out how many acres it takes to support your current lifestyle, go to the Ecological Footprint website.