02/28/13

A recent study figured out how many times you needed to reuse a reusable cup before it actually begins to save energy and resources in comparison to using a throwaway paper cup. When comparing a typical paper coffee cup, it found a reusable ceramic mug would need to be used 39 times before you begin to see environmental savings, a plastic thermos would need to be used 17 times and a heat-resistant glass mug just 15 times. What's taken into consideration is the amount of materials and resources needed to make a reusable cup, plus the amount of water and energy to wash it. So the lesson is simple: Buy one reusable cup and use it over and over.

02/27/13

Waxy cardboard containers that milk and juice products are packaged in can be rinsed out and reused. Crafty people love to use these containers when making homemade candles or soap. Just fill the containers with melted wax or glycerin soap, add a wick, dye or scent, and chill in the fridge. In an hour or so, you can peel off the paper and reveal and perfectly molded new candle or block of soap. And the best part? If your community recycles these containers, you can toss the peeled cardboard into your recycling bin.

02/26/13

Use common sense when picking produce and using it at home. Look for produce that is not bruised, moldy, slimy or sick-looking. Smell the produce: If it smells bad, leave it behind. Produce that has been misted with water from automatic systems can be full of bacteria, especially if your supermarket recycles water like many stores do. When you get your produce home, wash and dry it well to remove any traces of germs, mold or bacteria before eating. Most importantly: Pack your produce and meats in different bags to avoid cross-contamination.