When it comes to building a porch or deck for your home, there's no comparison: Composite decking is the greenest and most convenient choice. Unlike wood decking that comes from forests, which needs to be replaced and repainted and will eventually sag and rot, composite decking stands the test of time. Plus, it's made from recycled materials -- often from plastic bags collected in supermarket recycling bins -- and has the look and feel of natural wood. It's also maintenance-free, meaning once you install it, it'll look as good many years later as it did on the first day.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Have you thought about investing in an "energy monitor" for your home? Think of it like the fitness tracker you wear on your wrist, but it's a device that tells you how much energy is being used in your whole home, as well as where it's being used. The monitor syncs with your phone and can pinpoint energy usage all the way down to the exact spot in your home. It'll help you see where energy is being wasted so you can remedy it and reduce consumption.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

We may have been taught it's rude to refuse a gift, but in an effort to be more environmentally conscious, there are circumstances where it's OK. Is a store offering a free gift with purchase? If you really don't want it, politely decline. Is an online order offering to upgrade your shipment to overnight delivery for free? Opt out if you don't need it right away and stick with the more fuel-efficient ground shipping option instead. And when you have a special occasion like a birthday, ask for waste-free things like plants for a garden or edible things you can all share.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION