Aluminum is a material that can be recycled almost infinitely into new metal products. But aluminum isn’t just limited to beverage cans. Aluminum foil used for baking and covering dishes is 100 percent pure metal, which can be easily recycled. Metal covers used in food packaging -- like those found on yogurt cups and cream cheese containers -- can be removed, cleaned and recycled, too. All you need to do is crumple the foil into a ball and toss into the bin. Make sure it’s clean, since food particles can contaminate a load of recyclable metal.

Do you have old computers or desktops you want to give away? If they're less than five years old, it’s best to donate the computers to a refurbisher, who can update the software and get them running in the best possible condition. Microsoft-registered refurbishers (msregrefurb.com) take both PCs and Macs, upgrade them and hand them off to charities like schools and organizations that help people around the world get their hands on updated technology. Older computers and equipment you donate can be given to charities like Goodwill and recyclers who strip them and sell the materials to raise money and keep old technology out of landfills.

With warmer spring weather here, many of us turn to power washers to blast away grime, dirt and debris from outdoor furniture, decking and the sides of houses. But using conventional pressure-washing solution can also mean spraying a non-biodegradable mixture all over the yard, into the ground and onto outdoor plants. Instead of using a store-bought solution, use one that’s effective, eco-friendly and that you can make at home. In a large bucket, mix 1 gallon water, 1/3 cup phosphate-free laundry detergent and 2/3 cup powdered eco-friendly all-purpose cleaning powder. Mix slowly to avoid clumping, and use as you normally would with your power washer.