For many parts of the nation, it’s cold. Very cold. In times like these, it’s very tempting to turn up the thermostat.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests several ways to cut down on pollution at home and one of the recommendations is to turn down the thermostat in the winter.

The suggested setting is 68 degrees when you’re awake, and 10-15 degrees lower when you’re sleeping.

If you think that having the thermostat set to 75 is no big deal, check out the EPA’s Individual Emissions Calculator to find out your greenhouse gas emissions.

While jacking up the temp may seem to be the easiest way to keep warm, there is another way to stay toasty without using extra emissions. Instead, use extra clothes.

It’s called layering. Why not wear a pair of leggings or stockings under your pants? For men, I suggest long johns.

On top, you could wear a long sleeved t-shirt under your shirt. And throw a sweater or flannel shirt on over your clothes

You could wear two pairs of socks while at home. And if you’re sitting at your computer or watching TV, why not cover up with a blanket?

The Weather and Health course sponsored by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) and the COMET Program reports that layering your clothing is the most effective way to keep warm. They say multiple layers are better at trapping air and insulating the body than just one layer, like a thick coat.

What do you do to stay warm in the winter? Do you layer, exercise more often, drink hot tea or coffee? I’d love any tips or recommendations!