9/26/09

When cooking on electric stovetops, use the right size burners for the right size pans. If you're just frying an egg in a small pan, use the smaller burner; use the larger ones for stock pots or large skillets. Using a larger burner to heat up a small pan or pot can use up to 40 percent too much energy.

9/25/09

If you're trying to find a new home for a piece of furniture, a bag of clothes, an old chandelier or anything that's hard to recycle, give FreeCycle a try. This free Web site connects people giving away their things to people who need those things. It's organized by ZIP codes, so you'll only be reaching people in your community. No money can ever exchange hands and everything has to be totally free. Learn more at freecycle.org.

9/24/09

If you're dining out tonight and plan to take leftovers home with you, be sure to ask for just one more thing: aluminum containers. Instead of Styrofoam clamshell boxes or waxed paper containers, aluminum storage can be put right into the oven for easy reheating and is fully recyclable. Less waste and less fuss.