Just one manufacturer of disposable pens sells close to 9 billion of them every single year. Plastic pens are nearly impossible to recycle, and the majority end up in landfills. If you have a collection of dried-up plastic pens, you can send them to an artist called The Pen Guy who uses them to make large-scale collages that vary from abstract to whimsical patterns. He takes a wide variety of writing implements, including ballpoint and felt-tip pens, regular and dry-erase markers, and mechanical pencils. To learn how to donate, just visit his website at penguyart.com.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Freezing conditions outside may not be ideal for enjoying the great outdoors, but they are perfect for eradicating potential pests from your household items. Simply lay a tarp outside and cover it with items you can’t launder easily, like pillows, throw blankets, toys, shoes and books. The harsh temps will kill bed bugs, dust mites and any other pesky critters lurking inside. Large items need as much as four days to properly freeze, so if you have the opportunity to take advantage of an extended cold spell, consider a secure location like an unheated garage or shed for this winter detox project.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Are you trying to kick the plastic water bottle habit? It can be hard when you travel, which is why the bare-bones (but useful) website WaterAtAirports.com was created. It’s a list of airports all over the world that have refillable water stations. The forum is moderated and curated by green-minded jetsetters and tells you exactly at which terminals, gates and locations you can find water stations. Just bring your empty reusable water bottle through security and you can stay hydrated on the go.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION