The next time there's a big gathering or you're invited to a potluck party (and maybe you're not the best cook), offer to bring reusable dishes, cups and utensils. Bring them in durable bins and let everyone go waste-free for the fete. When the party's over, load the dirty dishes and utensils into the bins and run them through the dishwasher once you get home. You'll be accomplishing two wonderful things: helping the environment by cutting back on waste, and not leaving the host with the burden of washing dishes or throwing away trash.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It's important to keep the surfaces in your bathroom germ-free and as clean as possible, but there's no need to get expensive or chemical-laden cleaning products to do the job when two simple ingredients will work just fine: water and rubbing alcohol. Mix two parts 70% isopropyl alcohol and one part water in a reusable spray bottle, then spray away. Since rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly, it can be used on nearly any surface, and it's a great disinfectant, too. Wipe with a microfiber towel for extra cleanliness.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Bats are a critical part of keeping our ecosystems in check. According to a published study in the journal Science, bats eat so many insects that they save the U.S. agriculture industry more than $3 billion per year as natural pest control. Unfortunately, bats are at risk, but there are things you can do to help them survive. Start by eliminating pesticides from your yard, since a single bat can eat up to 3,000 insects per night. Turn off lights at night, because a dark environment is one in which they thrive. Finally, leave dead and dying trees in place; they create habitats for bats.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION