5/23/13

Generally, reusing items is one of the greenest things you can do. But when it comes to plastic disposable utensils like forks, knives and spoons, it's best to use them only once. While it's tempting to rinse plastic utensils and reuse them, they really aren't designed to be used more than once. When you wash plastic utensils, microscopic spaces are created that can harbor food particles that will turn into bacterial growth. So, if you must use plastic utensils, don't reuse -- but try to opt for reusable silverware whenever possible.

5/22/13

Terra-cotta pots are great for container gardening and are an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic pots. But terra-cotta pots can break easily. Instead of tossing those shards in the trash, use them to improve your garden. Mix the shards in the soil under the eaves of your house, where rainwater can build up on stormy days. It will help with drainage, since terra cotta absorbs water. Plus, you won't see the shards since they are mixed in the soil.

5/21/13

Many of us enjoy the convenience of online shopping. When choosing shipping options, opt to use the U.S. Postal Service whenever possible. By sending items through the USPS, you're using an existing fleet of delivery trucks that go through your neighborhood on a daily basis, which is not always true of express delivery trucks. This helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, the USPS option is often the cheapest, so you save money, too.