Plastic binders can be very difficult to recycle because most curbside recycling programs don’t accept this unusual grade of plastic. Instead of tossing your heavy-duty binders in the trash, take them to Office Depot or OfficeMax for free recycling. The stores have partnered with TerraCycle to separate all the materials in the binders for recycling. And when you take in your old binder for recycling -- regardless of where you bought it -- the stores will give you $2 off the purchase of a new one.

Waterproofing fabric and material used for things like boots and tents may help keep them dry during inclement weather, but there are concerns the chemicals in waterproofing sprays can have serious health effects on one’s respiratory system. To avoid chemical sprays, try all-natural solutions like beeswax, linseed oil and jojoba oil. Wipe the wax or oil using a cloth to create a quick, water-resistant surface. The layer of protection may not be long-lasting, but it’ll do the trick when you need it for a rainy day or weekend camping trip.

Many of us leave seashells and sand behind on the beach when we travel instead of bringing them home as souvenirs. This is a great thing, since this helps preserve the natural biodiversity of coastal areas. But what about pieces of driftwood that wash up on the shore? Whether you found it on the beach or even in a gift shop, U.S. Customs and Border Protection highly discourages bringing driftwood back. In many countries (and in some parts of the United States), it’s illegal to take driftwood from protected ecosystems. But the main reason is pests may be living in the driftwood, and you could introduce a non-native species to wherever you live.