The implementation of bans on single-use plastic shopping bags in many cities (New York City being the most recent) has created a surge in people using reusable bags when they shop. That's a great thing. But have you ever wondered how many times you need to use a reusable bag before it becomes greener than a single-use bag? Turns out, it's 131 times. A 2011 study by the U.K. government came to the conclusion that using such a bag this many times would make reusable bags a greener choice for climate change than using plastic bags once.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you must use disposable paper plates, go with the most boring, uncoated, unprinted varieties. Party plates that come in bright colors with shiny coatings are non-compostable and nonrecyclable, and they can be expensive to boot. Generic white paper plates or durable "Classic White" Chinet plates get the job done and can be safely tossed into the compost bin at home to break down and become beneficial mulch.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It's always a good idea to have flashlights handy in the home in case of a power outage. But did you know it's an even better idea to store your flashlight without the batteries inside? Over time, batteries left inside a flashlight can wear down, and they can corrode and destroy the metal contacts. Too much corrosion can lead to a flashlight that simply does not work. Instead, leave the batteries in their original packaging next to the flashlight, and when the time comes that you need it, just pop them in.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION