6/6/13

Not only is microwave popcorn expensive (about 37 cents per serving), it is also wasteful and potentially dangerous: The nonstick coating inside the bag contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a likely carcinogen, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Instead, buy popcorn kernels from the bulk bin at the supermarket. It's significantly cheaper, and you can pop them on the stovetop in about the same time it takes to microwave popcorn. Plus, you can make the exact amount you want.

6/5/13

Do you like to enjoy your Starbucks latte, iced coffee or breakfast sandwich in the store? If so, the next time you order, be sure to add "this order is for here." That way, the barista will serve your order in a reusable mug or on a plate, which you can return to the store so it can be used over and over. It also lets you enjoy your hot beverages in BPA-free ceramic cups and cuts down on the waste of disposable products.

6/4/13

While gift cards are convenient to give when you're not sure what to buy someone, they can be tough to recycle. More than 75 million pounds of PVC plastic from gift cards are thrown away every year. Your used gift cards are now recyclable thanks to EarthWorks, a company that recycles them to make plastic sheeting, which can be used to make new gift cards, ID cards, signs, hotel key cards, bookmarks, rulers and more. To learn more, visit earthworkssytem.com.