Simple Tips... Please add more in the comments section!
(1)
Use cloth napkins. Not just for holiday dinners anymore! These are so easy to pick up at estate sales, but if you have to buy new there are cheap options at every big box store. Once you get in the habit, you will feel funny about ever using a paper napkin or paper towel in your home. Easy to throw in the laundry with your normal loads, cloth napkins are great for cleaning, better for constant kid spills and super durable.
(2)
Buy Used. Good for your budget and the planet... most things can be bought used. We buy/ trade used almost all of our kid's clothing and some of our own. Big ticket items are much less expensive pre-owned and unless you want the latest and greatest (insert hybrid cars here), there is always a great selection.
(3)
Grow some veggies! If you saw my previous composting and Spring garden posts, you know this is a new and exciting adventure for our family, but I know there are many of you out there that are already pros. If you don't have the land or leisure time for a garden, try to buy local produce whenever possible.
www.localharvest.org can help you search for your nearest farmer's market.
(4)
Get a whiteboard. Dry erase or chalk boards are great ways to cut down on paper for household communication, grocery lists, etc. If you are a "list" person and need something to carry, use the back of junk mail and envelopes. This tip is especially important if you have kids. My kids LOVE to do crafts and draw. We are trying to differentiate for them when is is OK to use real paper (crafts, things they want to give to grandma) and when they should use the white board (all daily doodles!)
(5)
Use Reusable gift wrap! You didn't think I would forget this one, did you? check out
www.fabricwrapper.com for wrapping for every occasion. So much waste is generated by disposable wrapping... please make this change!
Labels: cloth napkins, farmer's markets, gardening, reusable gift wrap, reuse, sustainability
