It's tempting: Your favorite sweatshirt is in the dirty laundry pile and you really, really want to wear it, so you consider running it in the washing machine all by itself. Do just one thing: Wear something else from your closet. Running a washing machine with a small load is a significant waste of water, energy and money. When you consider the fact that your washing machine uses about 13,500 gallons of water per year, small runs can contribute significantly to excess waste. Always run full loads and use cold or cool water whenever you can.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Microwaves are a convenient and energy-efficient way to cook and heat up leftovers instead of using an oven. But when using a microwave, opt for only microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers for food, even if a plastic container is marked "microwave-safe." Plastics with that marking can withstand heat only up to a certain temperature; if you're cooking something on high for an extended period of time, the plastic containers can still lose their shape and could possibly leach chemicals into your food.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

To help combat climate change and do your part to protect the biodiversity of the planet, plant tree seedlings. If you have land that can accommodate a few dozen tree seedlings, it's an inexpensive act that can eventually lead to impressive results. The best time to plant these seedlings is in the early spring, when the ground has just thawed and it's still cool enough to not "bake" the trees with the hot sun. Cool temps help give seedlings a chance to get rooted, set and strong enough to thrive.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION