12/10/10

While we all know that it's easy to recycle cans and bottles instead of throwing them away, we often forget about the more unusual items that can also be recycled. When you need to replace your car battery, don't give it away to the repair shop to have them properly dispose of it. These car batteries are expensive products that many manufacturers will buy back in order to recycle, using components to make new batteries. It can be as simple as calling the dealership from where you bought your car and inquiring about getting some cash for your battery trash.

12/9/10

If you're making a donation to a charity, be sure to tell them that you would like to opt out in receiving any free gift (a T-shirt, tote bag, etc) or regular newsletter/magazine. These items are used as incentives to help raise money for the charity, but cost money to make and ship. By opting out of receiving something that you probably didn't want anyway, you can make sure the full value of your donation is going toward good works.

12/8/10

When lighting candles or starting a fire in the fireplace, it's easy to stock up on the plastic wand fire starters that are pre-filled with lighter fluid and create a flame with the flick of a switch. The problem with these convenient starters is that most of them are not refillable and are thrown away -- plastic components and all. Stick with regular matches or stock up on free matches whenever you eat out instead.