What do you wear to work? Synthetic fabrics may require expensive dry cleaning involving potent chemicals that can contribute to air and water pollution when not handled properly. The alternative?

Check the label. Avoid clothing that requires dry cleaning.

Choose cotton and wool. Natural fibers are easier to care for at home. Often they can be washed in cool water and hung out to dry, reducing chemical use and energy, too.

Try fabric blends. Fabrics that are a blend of cotton and synthetic fibers can usually be laundered at home.

Dress down. Fancier outfits seem to require more dry cleaning than casual wear. Encourage your office to implement a "casual day" on Fridays.

Dressing Right For Mother Nature

• Organic cotton clothing includes t-shirts, blouses, stockings, and sweaters. Some organic cottons require little or no dyeing because they grow in pale colors, such as green, brown and white.
• Fabric made from fast-growing, low-impact hemp is being used in gloves, jackets, shoes and sandals, among many other fashion mainstays and accessories.
• Energy-saving recycled polyester is being made into pullovers, jackets, vests, and footwear.

Look for natural clothing alternatives, particularly in eco-catalogues, at various outfitter shops and on the Internet. Check consignment shops and yard sales for perfectly good "recycled" clothes, especially for kids!