8/16/09

Don't use plastic sandwich bags when making a ham and cheese sandwich for lunch. Instead, choose from three options (ranked from greenest to easiest): a hard-plastic lunch box, wax paper or aluminum foil. The lunch box is reusable, but if you're forgetful, you'll probably lose it. If so, then wrap sandwiches in biodegradable wax paper or recyclable aluminum foil. All are good choices; just do what's easiest for you and best for your PB&J.

8/15/09

Skip the free gift with your purchase of cosmetics. While it's tempting to take the travel tote or loot of unneeded moisturizers and makeup with your purchase, the reality is that you probably will never use it. The accessories and makeup will just get stashed away in the closet, or worse, thrown in the trash a few months later. Only take the free gift if you truly do want it and need it. Otherwise, politely decline.

8/14/09

Check the grease plates under the burners in your kitchen stove. Are they clean or grimy? If grease and burnt food debris are building up, give the plates a good scrub or replace them altogether. If you let the gunk build up, the heat won't reflect off the plates and will make the stove less efficient.