More than $750 million goes unspent every year from gift cards, and it’s a shame, because the unused balances could be used to do some good. Many charities will accept your unused cards from almost any retailer. They’ll either use the balance to buy much-needed items for their works -- like clothing or food -- or they’ll sell the gift cards to raise funds for their nonprofit work. Take the time to rummage through your wallet, purse or junk drawer and give your unused gift cards away. Even a card with a few pennies left on it is better used than unused.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s website fueleconomy.gov, one of the easiest ways to maximize your car’s fuel efficiency is to simply follow the speed limit. While, yes, aggressive driving can create unsafe road conditions for you and drivers around you, you’re also wasting gas and money. Think of it this way: For every 5 mph you drive at speeds over 50 mph, you’re wasting around $.18 per gallon in gas. So, if you drive 70 mph in a 50 mph zone, that’s wasting $.72 cents per gallon. Follow the speed limit to save money and save lives.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

When it comes time to wrap gifts during the holiday season, think reusable, reusable, reusable. One easy idea is to wrap gifts using a new kitchen or bath towel so that it can be reused after the present is unwrapped. You also can use things you might already have around the house: large pieces of paper that were used for kids’ artwork; old maps or newspaper; and even just a reusable bag where you tie the top into a neat little bow. Whatever you can do to help reduce holiday waste is a step in the right direction.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION