As residents throughout the region and all over the world celebrate Earth Month, Puget Sound Energy (PSE) announced it wants to help Eastsiders reduce their carbon footprint.

“Creating pathways to allow our customers to participate in green energy and reduce their carbon footprint is a commitment year-round,” said PSE director of customer energy management and renewables, Bob Stolarski in a press release. “There are many low-cost ways to make your home and lifestyle green this month and every month.”

PSE recommends three easy ways to participate in Earth Month. The first is to replace inefficient lightbulbs with LEDs. Switching to LEDs may seem like a small change, but they can make a big impact in homes and the environment. Compared to CFLs or incandescent bulbs, LEDs provide higher quality lighting, have a longer lifespan, and contain zero toxic elements. Homeowners should look for everyday instant discounts and special offers on LEDs at participating retail stores.

Secondly, homeowners can recycle their fridge responsibly. Proper fridge disposal reduces greenhouse gas emissions and saves more than 120 pounds of recyclable steel from the landfill. From now until the end of May, PSE will give homeowners $50 to pick up and recycle their old model.

Lastly, homeowners can use renewable energy. Homeowners don’t have to install solar panels to participate in green energy but can match part of their electricity usage with locally sourced, renewable energy.

PSE will also be doing its part this Earth Month by handing out thousands of seeds and seedlings throughout its service area. Events are scheduled throughout the Eastside at UW Bothell/Cascadia Sustainability Fair on April 19; Duvall Earth and Arbor Day Festivalon April 21; Vashon Island Earth Day Festival on April 21; Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group Earth Day on April 21; Bainbridge Island Climate Education Event on April 21; Olympia Home Show on April 21 and 22; and Northwest Small Business Conference on April 24.