12/7/12

While bringing reusable bags to the store is always the greenest option when shopping, we often forget -- even when we have the best intentions. If you've saved a collection of sturdy shopping bags with handles, bring them to your local Goodwill. The resell store will reuse the bags in its own stores. You're helping a good cause and finding a way to reuse the bags without tossing them in the trash.

12/6/12

At the end of the year, many of us go around the house and replace the alkaline batteries in our smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace them with fresh batteries. This is a great idea. But those batteries are far from dead, and they shouldn't be tossed in the trash. Save those batteries and use them for other items like remote controls or children's toys.

12/5/12

Outdoor holiday lights are a festive way to bring illuminating charm to your home and neighborhood. But even energy-efficient string lights should be turned off late at night. Not only do they still use energy, but nocturnal birds often get confused by the bright lights. One easy way to turn off the lights is to use your smartphone. The app X10 Controller can turn off the decorations with the push of a button. You can also use a timer that automatically turns your outdoor light on and off each day.