12/3/13

So, what’s the greenest trash bag? One made from biodegradable materials like potato or cornstarch, or one made from recycled plastic, which does not biodegrade? Go for the recycled one. While biodegradable trash bags may sound like the greenest choice, the reality is they don’t degrade when thrown away in landfills. Modern landfills are designed so no outside air or water can get in, so nothing inside will ever degrade, including biodegradable products. Recycled plastic is generally more durable than biodegradable bags, which prevents trash from accidentally ripping through the bag and flying all over the street.

12/2/13

The nonprofit Partners in Development works to help people in extreme poverty in countries like Haiti and Guatemala; it provides financial support, guidance, education and supplies to help the poor create their own businesses to spur economic development in those countries. As its network of volunteers visits these countries, they find a need for lightly used suitcases and duffel bags to help store and bring needed supplies. If you want to donate your luggage, visit pidonline.org to learn more.

12/1/13

One energy hog in the kitchen is the stove, and an easy way to make sure your gas or electric stove works as efficiently as possible is to periodically clean the drip pans and grates. It's easy: When your stove is cooled down, remove the drip pans and grates and soak them in the sink for an hour in a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar. Use a scouring sponge to clean the burners on the stove, and wipe them dry with a towel. Replace the drip pans and grates, and you should save some energy.