10/4/12

With so many environmental, conservation and scientific nonprofit organizations out there, it can be overwhelming to choose which one to donate money to. The best advice is to not be afraid to ask questions: Where is your money going, how much will be spent for overhead and can you earmark it toward a specific project? You can also search on the website GuideStar (guidestar.org), which has a database of more than a million nonprofit organizations that you can search to learn more about.

10/3/12

Many of us have the ubiquitous packets of ketchup in our office or home junk drawer. If the ketchup is past its prime to use on french fries, turn it into metal polish instead. Squeeze the packets open on tarnished copper and brass cookware, rub with a cloth and the brilliant metals should shine through in a few minutes. Just rinse and buff to finish.

10/2/12

Another reason to avoid artificial fragrance: it can confuse bees. Bees are vital to the natural world thanks to the important work they do to pollinate flowers. They are attracted to the sweet-smelling scent from actual flowers, and are also attracted to artificial scents found in body washes, perfumes, shampoo, air fresheners and scented candles. This confusion by bees can lead to fewer pollinated flowers. One way to help is to choose fragrance-free options whenever possible.