Would you turn on your shower for 90 minutes and let it run unused? Of course not -- that would be completely irresponsible and wasteful! But if you throw a barbecue and toss out a few uncooked hamburgers, that’s pretty much what you’re doing. Each hamburger patty that’s tossed into the trash equals about 90 minutes’ worth of water used to produce that amount of meat. If you do eat meat, be cautious and treat it like a special delicacy rather than as a disposable ingredient. And since meat isn’t compostable, eat it all or save it for future meals.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

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