One of the easiest ways to “green your stay” at hotels is to simply hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door. This stops housekeeping from changing your sheets, using water and wasting natural resources to get your room clean. Many hotel chains now reward guests for going green or for opting out of housekeeping. They’ll often give you a free drink at the bar, breakfast or reward points applicable toward your frequent guest account.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

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