Most of us have a "single-stream" recycling program, where items like glass bottles, tin and aluminum cans, cardboard boxes and paperboard are all commingled together and sorted at the recycling facility after collection. One way to make sure your recyclables are actually recycled is to prevent recyclable paper products from getting wet. In order to be recycled, paper products must remain as dry as possible. So if the forecast is calling for rain on the day of pickup, remove those paper items and just send out the rest. When the weather is clear, throw them back in.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

No matter what the prices are per gallon of gas, all of us can agree it's a smart idea to try to be as fuel-efficient as possible. Whether it's driving closer to the speed limit or keeping extra weight out of the car, small efforts add up to real savings. Here are two more easy ideas. If you live in a dry, dusty environment, change your air filters on a regular basis. A dirty filter can make your car work harder, which decreases fuel efficiency. And be sure you know what type of motor oil your car needs. The wrong oil can lead to decreased efficiency as well.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you know who one of the biggest sellers of names and addresses is, that results in your mailbox being flooded with junk mail? It's your credit card company. If you're tired of the 5 million tons of junk mail that is sent to Americans every year (typically ending up in landfills), you can help significantly decrease that amount by simply contacting your credit card company. Ask them to opt you out of any third-party mailing lists. And while you're at it, sign up at OptOutPreScreen.com to exclude yourself from receiving new credit card offers in the mail for five years.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION