If you’re only going to have one reusable bottle, consider investing in a high-quality stainless steel bottle that can hold both cold and hot beverages. Having one bottle that serves double-duty can help you cut down on waste, whether you’re refilling with cold water or ordering a double latte at your local coffee shop. Stainless steel doesn’t absorb odor, so there’s no residual flavor or scent after you rinse out the cup. And if you ever need a new one, stainless steel is easily recyclable, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Reduce, reuse, recycle and ... refuse? Yes, refuse! We’re taught to be polite, and we often think it’s rude to refuse the stack of napkins, plastic utensils or the plastic bag given out at the takeout restaurant. But if you don’t want it, why take it? Learn to make a habit of ordering things and adding “I don’t need a bag” or “No straws or napkins for me, please.” The reality is, it’s not considered rude to refuse things that will end up in the trash. And if it’s a small business, they’ll probably appreciate it because they’re saving money, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

One of the easiest ways to go green (and save money) is to simply not buy what you don’t need. Sounds easy enough, but it also means not giving in to huge money-saving deals during special sales and promotions. For example, does your TV work just fine? Then even if there is an outrageous sale on a brand-new flat-screen TV, don’t buy it, because you don’t need it! With just this one action, you’re helping to keep electronic waste out of landfills. And with an estimated 25 million used TVs in storage in homes right now, that’s one less thing to waste money on.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION