1/26/14

Ever wonder what's the best thing to do with expired canned food? It happens to even the most organized of us, but expired food can be dangerous if consumed. It can also be dangerous to even open the can. While it may be greener to open the canned food, toss the expired food and recycle the can, you risk exposing yourself to dangerous bacteria. If a can is more than two months past the expiration date, bacteria and fungus can grow inside. Open the can and those spores can be released into your kitchen. Instead, throw away the can intact.

1/25/14

Rechargeable batteries are environmentally friendly since they can be charged without having to be replaced. But many of us leave rechargeable products plugged into the wall indefinitely, which uses power even though the battery is already at full charge. Look around the house for rechargeable products, like an electric toothbrush, electric razors, power tools, smartphones and kids' games, and unplug them. This will help save you energy and prevent unnecessary wear on the rechargeable battery, too.

1/24/14

What do you do with reusable shopping bags if you have too many or have worn a few out and need to replace them? Don't toss them in the trash; instead, donate them to be recycled into new reusable shopping bags. One of the biggest makers of reusable bags, Chicobag, has a recycling program that accepts all types of reusable shopping bags in any condition. Bags in good condition are cleaned and donated to low-income families. Worn-out bags are woven into new products like aprons, rugs, journals and -- yes -- new bags. Learn more at chicobag.com.