Even if you see trash receptacles and recycling bins at a park or other outdoor recreational area you're visiting, consider taking your garbage home with you to throw away or recycle instead. Wild animals will root through trash cans and recycling bins, and large containers that once held condiments and snacks can be tempting to them. They could even get stuck inside the glass and plastic jars with no way to escape. By taking these containers home, you're making sure the critters stay safe.
While using a reusable bag to pack your kid's lunch in every day is the greenest choice, just be sure to wash it frequently to keep it clean. Foods that spill inside the bag not only cause stains on the fabric, but they can become a breeding ground for unhealthy germs, bacteria and mold. By washing the bag frequently, you'll keep the food safe and your kids healthy, too.
