The Town of Chesterton is embracing the green movement and we would like to invite you to join us! The phrase "going green" encompasses numerous ideas, but most importantly, it means a new way of Green Thinking.
You can make changes to your home, both inside and outside, in order to save monery and ensure you and your family are environmentally-friendly. We have some suggestions listed in the insideandoutside pages.
If you own a business, please don't feel left out! Check out the business page for more information!
If you're planning on building a new home, please turn your attention to the green buildingpage! You will learn about sustainable building opportunities and how to get started.
Don't forget to take a look at the extra knowledge page! There you will learn about Chesterton's existing education campaigns. You will also find links to newsletters that you can subscribe to and lots of helpful information.
Use this site to learn what it takes to kickstart your own green movement. We encourage you to relax a little and be open-minded because it's easier than you think! We're here to help you along the way!
Being eco-friendly requires a conscious effort to determine if the waste you are creating is harming the environment. Since Chesterton is full of great waterways, we must do everything in our power to keep them clean and healthy. It comes down to indivudal effort, and you are a perfect candidate!
Efficiency ultimately means creating minimal waste with whatever product you have. In order to go green, you must use the least amount of resources as possible, but still achieve the same result.
Education and awareness will determine the success of any green project. Basic guidance from us and your own research are crucial if you truly want to go green. This website will help you along the way!
Our numerous creeks, ditches and wetlands provide habitats for wildlife and enhance our natural landscapes. It takes both determination and enthusiasm from everyone to keep Chesterton beautiful.
If you don't want to have an energy audit performed, be sure to read through the Green Building page!
Incandescent Bulb
Compact Fluorescent Bulb (CFL)
High Intensity Discharge (HID), fluorescent lamps, and CFLs contain small amounts of mercury that is poisonous and harmful to the environment when not properly disposed of. Keep your bulbs intact and recycle them for proper disposal. Click Here to find local places to recycle your household fluorescent bulbs. Fortunately, the mercury in the bulbs do not pose a health risk if, when broken, they're immediately cleaned up.
To clean up fluorescent bulbs, put on gloves and carefully sweep all the grass fragments and tiny particles. Do not vacuum the pieces up because the mercury vaporizes when it's broken. Wipe entire area with damp cloth and place broken glass pieces and used cloth into a sealed plastic bag. Open windows for ventilation if the weather permits. For more tips on cleaning up fluorescent bulbs, visit Energy Star's website.
JFNewsells native plants and can be contracted to perform the job.
Spence also sells native plants but does not perform installations.
They're also available at most local retailers. Click Here for a list of some of Indiana's native plants.
We wanted to take a moment to point out that many of the green techniques available to homeowners are applicable for your business, as well.
Inside You can conduct a self-energy audit or hire a professional to do it for you. Recycling and using energy-efficient lighting is relatively simple, as well. Don't forget that you can install energy-efficient appliances that save money. Be sure to read the Inside page and theGreen Buildingpage, to read more about these opportunities.
Outside You can install a rain barrel underneath a downspout to catch rain water and runoff from your roof. You can also consider creating a rain garden, full of native plants that provide a habitat for many types of wildlife. Or you start your own compost pile! Be sure to check out the Outside page for more information!
Learn what it means to be a green business!Be sure to continue reading this section to get some additional ideas.
4 Yard Dumpsters: One for trash, one for recycling - You may want this.
8 Yard Dumpster for Trash Only - You may have this now.
Conventional Subdivision
Traditional Neighborhood - Smart Growth
Energy Star
Energy Star products have met rigid criteria to ensure energy efficiency. Approved by the U.S. EPA, Energy Star has added the seal to many appliances, heating and cooling systems, lighting, plumbing, building materials, and electronics.There are many options for going green, but purchasing Energy Star products is a simple way to curb your carbon footprint. Click Here to visit Energy Star's website to read about all of their products.
Purchasing Energy Star Products
1. Menards - Valparaiso//Portage, IN
2. Home Depot - Valparaiso, IN
3. Best Buy - Valparaiso, IN
4. Lowe's - Portage/Michigan City, IN
Tax Credits Available
Many Energy Star products qualify for tax credits. Read More!
Move over each picture with your mouse to view a success quote!
Unsure if a green technique is right for you? Read about Chesterton's Success Stories to help you decide!