We all can’t be completely perfect, so when you do use a disposable plastic bag and you’re forced to toss it in the trash, do one more thing before throwing it away: Make a knot. Thin plastic bags that get caught in the wind and go airborne can end up tangled in trees and wires or become litter on the road. By simply making a large, dense knot in the plastic before tossing it, you can prevent it from being easily airborne. Of course, the best solution is to avoid plastic bags altogether, but do this if you must throw one away.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Are you tired of being inundated with catalogs in your mailbox? Not only is it a nuisance to receive unwanted catalogs, it’s also a waste of natural resources. To have your name removed from the catalog lists, visit dmachoice.org. This is the online home of the Direct Marketing Association, and the site will allow you to unsubscribe from all catalogs (or pick and choose which ones you actually want) at a cost of $2. Unsubscribing will activate around 90 days after you opt out and should last for about 10 years.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

While it may be fashionable for a moment, deep, rich colors or bright, vibrant hues in clothing can also indicate that the materials have been dyed with very harsh chemicals. Textiles have to be treated with a myriad of chemicals to produce colors in fashionable psychedelic shades. According to Greenpeace, almost 20% of industrial water waste is from textile dyes and treatment. To avoid this, think neutral. The less colorful, the fewer (if any) dyes are used. Always look for organic fabrics, or even better, try to shop secondhand.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION