If you like the convenience of freezing peak fruits and veggies to use down the road but don’t like the idea of using plastic bags, there is an eco-friendly alternative. Reusable silicone bags mimic the look and feel of freezer bags, but are free of harmful PVC and latex and made with zero petroleum products. They close airtight just like freezer bags, but are also safe to use in the freezer, microwave, dishwasher and even boiling water. And remember, if you do use plastic freezer bags, they are recyclable. Just place them in the same bins that accept plastic grocery bags for recycling.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It’s become common knowledge that using an energy/water-efficient dishwasher is better than scrubbing and cleaning dishes by hand. But not everyone has a new state-of-the-art dishwasher at home, so what do you do to minimize the waste? You can fill a small plastic tub in the sink with warm soapy water and let your dishes, utensils and glasses soak. Then rinse them clean after you’ve given them a good soak and scrub. Using a plastic tub helps protect more delicate items, such as dishes and glassware, from chipping against the hard surface of the sink.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When you turn on your oven to make a roast or a lasagna, it takes a significant amount of energy (gas or electric) to transform a large, cold box into a heating machine. To be as energy-efficient as possible, consider the concept of loading up the oven whenever you bake or roast something. Since the oven is getting hot, roast veggies, potatoes or even a batch of cookies in addition to your main meal. Make meals for the week and store them in reusable containers for instant lunches and dinners. And as always, never open the door to check on meals when you can use the oven light to peek inside instead.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION