6/25/12

Did you know the recycling bins for plastic shopping bags you find at supermarkets are good for other types of plastic too? These bins collect old plastic bags to be made into new products, like recycled plastic lumber. You can also add clean, dry sandwich bags, retail bags (from places other than the supermarket), newspaper bags, dry cleaning covers and the shrink-wrap on paper goods.

6/24/12

Many people now bring reusable thermoses to the store to fill with coffee to help keep the java hot and to cut down on disposable cups. You can also use your thermos to keep foods hot longer. Think homemade mac and cheese, soup and other items you can store in an airtight thermos. You can enjoy these hot foods for lunch at work or your kids can take them to school. If the thermos keeps coffee warm, it will also keep food toasty for hours.

6/23/12

For small personal electronics that use rechargeable or disposable batteries, consider taking the batteries out when you're not using the item. Electronics like digital cameras, camcorders and laptop computers still drain the batteries when they are left inside the item -- even if it's turned off. By completely removing the battery, you're preventing phantom draining and helping to extend the life of the battery.