Here are just some of the ways Sacramento Parent is planting seeds for a greener future:

1. Tree-Hugging
You may not have even noticed, but we've switched to a lighter-weight paper, meaning fewer trees will be lost in the production of your favorite monthly and less energy spent transporting the magazines. Of course, we recycle any copies left lingering when the month is done, and we hope you'll do the same.

2. More Tree-Hugging
We also stepped up our in-office paper recycling last year, adding another receptacle by the printer. Whenever possible, we also try to save paper by previewing documents electronically or printing things double-sided. We're making the switch to recyclable and/or refillable ink cartridges too!

3. Air-Sparing
When practical, many of us leave our cars in park and work from home. Email and cell phones make it pretty easy to meet deadlines and still counter commute emissions, cut down on office energy costs and reduce the damage done at the pump. Why not talk to your boss about the possibility of telecommuting?

4. Energy-Saving
We've switched to a way more energy efficient lighting system in our office. For simple ways to consume less and save more in your own home or workspace, visit www.pge.com.

5. Idea-Sharing
Month after month, our Green Scene column offers all kinds of useful info for families who want to help heal the planet by thinking globally and acting locally.

6. Re-using
Our goodie bags are really "good" these days! We've switched from handing out plastic at community events to giving away reusable canvas shopping bags (still filled with fun stuff). Thanks to our advertisers for helping us make this sustainable switch!

7. Globe-Loving
The expansion of our website lets us bring you, and parents everywhere, paper-free advice and support, including Online Extras, Blogs, Support Group Listings, Places to Visit around Sac, and more, without printing more pages. Share this great resource with your mom-friends: www.SacramentoParent.com.

We hope our latest energy-saving, air-sparing, tree-hugging efforts will inspire you with new ways to "green" your home or business and make life better for your family and others. We love getting tips from you too! Write us with any suggestions you have: amy@sacramentoparent.com