We all know that using soap and water plays a vital role in staying healthy and preventing the spread of diseases. But often soap in other parts of the world is either expensive or impossible to find. The charity Clean the World is working with hotels -- from big chains to small bed-and-breakfasts -- to recycle discarded bar soaps into new soaps to give away. You can share this information with your local hotel, motel or inn and encourage them to join and give. All they do is fill a box with soap bars and attach a prepaid UPS label. Learn more at cleantheworld.org.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Here's a simple idea to help prevent food waste: Hold off on going to the grocery store for as long as you can. The reality is, you probably have enough in your pantry and fridge to make a perfectly good meal. On average, about 30% to 40% of the food we purchase goes to waste. That fills up landfills and also wastes money. Skipping a day or two between grocery store runs is a simple way to use up what you have. And a quick tip: Don't go on an empty stomach; it'll help prevent impulse purchases.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

There are several online shops that give artisans, makers and small businesses a chance to showcase their wares and sell all over the world. But is it really environmentally friendly to buy a heavy handmade blanket that comes from all the way across the world to your doorstep? When shopping on these sites, opt for the "local" filter that limits your searches to vendors who are within a certain range. This will prevent costly CO2-emitting shipping and keep your carbon footprint lower.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION