Beverages in aluminum containers are an environmentally friendly choice because aluminum can be recycled infinitely into new metal products. But when buying canned beverages like sodas and sparkling water, consider going for a box of cans versus a six-pack. Six-packs are typically bound together with plastic rings that are not recyclable and can end up entangling wildlife in their loops. A box of canned drinks does not have plastic rings, and the box itself is recyclable!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know one of the easiest and most effective ways to help prevent the death of birds is to simply keep your cat indoors? The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute conducted a study that found 1.4 to 3.7 billion birds are killed every year by regular and feral cats who roam outdoors and instinctively prey on them. As a pet owner, you can help reduce wildlife mortality by keeping your cat inside or monitoring its activity when it is outdoors.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Is a real evergreen Christmas tree better for the environment than an artificial one you can reuse? According to the Nature Conservancy, you should go with a fresh-cut tree. Real Christmas trees are grown on farms, and as they grow, they help fight climate change. They're grown on land that might otherwise be developed, which provides habitat for wildlife as well. Also, real trees are recyclable; they're made into mulch and can biodegrade. When it comes to artificial trees, almost all of them are made overseas, they are not recyclable and they will ultimately end up in landfills.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION