I think it best to start with a promise to yourself.  If you do only one thing a day to make the world a better place, just one tiny thing, within one year you would have done 365 things to help the world.  Not such a bad start is it.

 

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Such a familiar term, but it applies to more then just grocery bags.

 

If you are unsure where to start the best place is at the beginning.

 

Reduce the amount you as a consumer bring into your home.  Remember what comes in usually goes out ( in the trash).

 

- Cut out the plastic bags, and the paper while you are at it.  Bring your own and save yourself and the Earth the garbage.

- Be realistic.  If you are buying an orange do you really need the produce bag as well?

- Skip on unnecessary packaging.  Sure you can order that book online with all it’s extra packaging, or you can pick it up from the local bookstore on your way home.  Free of extra boxes and plastics.

- Don’t impulse buy.  If you don’t need it, don’t buy it.  So save your money, and remember just because it’s a great price doesn’t always mean you need it, or you’ll use it.

- Opt-out, free yourself of wasteful junk mail.  While your at it, go paperless.  Many companies are now offering paperless billing and online statements.  Try www.newdream.org/junkmail/form.php

- Buy used when you can.  Reusing is even better then recycling, and with so many options it is like treasure hunting for the Earth friendly.  great places to look include Freecycle, Craigslist, Etsy, Thrift stores, Used book shops and local garage sales.

 

Reuse whenever you can.  Not everything is destined for the garbage can.  Get creative.  Many common items can serve a wide range of purposes, for both the crafty and not so crafty.

 

Plastic Bags – Even if you Green bag it, they still find there way into the home.  Everything from bread to produce to your bulk items are individually bagged.  Don’t toss them!

    - Can you knit or crochet?  Try using them instead of yarn.  Check out these easy to follow instructions. 

    - Ever thought of fusing them?  Makes for an easily washable and fun textured material.  Check out the easy how-to guide. 

( It is recommended that you work in a ventilated area.)

 

  

Here is a set I made with Target and bread bags. 

 

Food Containers – So many can be washed and reused.  

    - Yogurt, sour cream, you name it, they all come in that standard shape just perfect for planting.  It’s easy, cut a couple holes in the bottom to allow for draining and place the container on its lid.  You can paint and decorate, or just leave plain the choice is yours.

    - Many make great use for around the house storage.  Especially for smaller items.

   

Coffee, Tea, Food and plain paper – The best reuse for these is composting. 

    - Check out http://www.compostguide.com/  It is not as hard or smelly as you would think. 

At the very least grab an empty planter and add some dirt, shredded paper, leaves and some used coffee or tea.  Then add a little water and your on your way.

 

Paper towel, toilet paper rolls, egg cartons and more…- Where to begin, there are hundreds of things you can make with these.  Try an online search, you’ll be amazed by what you find.

    - If crafts aren’t your cup of tea, donate them to a local school, daycare or community center for kid craft projects.  (Same goes for many plastic food containers.)

 

Tin Cans – Another durable byproduct.

    - You can make luminaries, or use them for planters, pencil holders and vases.  To name a few. 

 

- Broken Jewelry may be trash to you, but many people use them for parts.

- Clothes can be passed down to shelters, resold or donated.

- Appliances and electronics – if working should definitely be given a new home, if not repairable then recycled appropriately. 

- Baby Food Jars – check with your local acupuncturist, some use them for their traditional remedies.

 

There are way too many options to list.  Most things people throw in the trash can in some way or another be reused.  It just takes a little creativity.

 

And last but not least RECYCLE.  When you must toss it, pick the recycling bin, not the trash can.

 

 

 

Quick and Easy  – Little habits

- Keep reusable bags in you car, many people don’t realize they left them at home until they are in the checkout line.

- Carry a travel mug with you and not only will your coffee/tea stay hot longer, you can rinse and refill anywhere.

- Same goes for a reusable water bottle.  They tend to keep water cooler longer in the summer any ways.

- Try to avoid individually packaged everything,  bring your own snacks in reusable containers.

- Picking up one piece of garbage takes less effort then tying your shoe. 

- Turn it off and unplug, from lights to electronics.  Every little bit adds up.  Reduce your bill and your impact.

- Go energy efficient.  With everything from light bulbs to appliances, it’s an easy switch.

- Spend less time in the car.  Try running all your errands at one time. Less trips to the store saves you money on gas.

- Get a plant, even if your thumb is less than green.  With so many types around, you’re sure to find one for you.

- When you have the option, go for recycled, refurbished, organic or sustainable.

- Remember, you always have a choice.  Money is the loudest voice in the world.  If the eco-unfriendly don’t get it, they’ll be more incline to change their ways.

- Last but not least. – SMILE – Happiness is contagious.  I hope you all catch it!!!

 

Anyone can make a difference, it’s wether or not YOU choose to that matters.

 

Happy Earth Day and may your part of the world be beautiful.