12/22/11

If you must use disposable paper plates, go with that are the most boring, uncoated, unprinted kinds. Party plates that come in bright colors with shiny coatings are not compostable, nonrecyclable and can be expensive to buy. Generic white paper plates or durable classic white Chinet plates get the job done and can be safely tossed into the compost bin at home to break down and become beneficial mulch.

12/21/11

When in doubt as to what to give someone as a gift, think potted plants. Some easy-to-grow plants that are nearly impossible to kill include snake plants, jade plants, peace lily, succulents and, of course, cacti. Repot the plant in a pretty ceramic pot with drainage holes and tie a bow around it (be sure to leave the care instruction tag most houseplants come with). And remember: Stores like Lowe's will usually take back the plastic container the plant came in for recycling.

12/20/11

Here's a fast way to upcycle the Sunday newspaper into a festive wreath: Cut a newspaper section in half once lengthwise then across so you have four squares of newsprint. Scrunch 12 squares together and use zip ties to attach them to a craft store wire wreath frame. Continue all around the circle until the whole wreath is covered, and fluff the squares into rosettes. Instant and gorgeous upcycled wreath!