By Staff
Perhaps you haven't yet started on recycling the many containers that come with packaged food purchases. And, maybe you have limited access to some of the “greener” food products on the market. Yet there are many things you can do if you're interested in a “greener,” more environmentally friendly household. Read on for more easy steps you can take right now. They also will save you money, adding a little extra green to your wallet!
1. Size matters. When choosing between a large container and several small containers that add up to the same volume: Consider whether buying the large container would serve the same purpose and save you money? For example, do you really need to buy individual boxes (and more packaging) of juice if they all are drunk in the same week and at your kitchen table?
2. It's in the bag. While we could all carry our own reusable shopping bags when we go shopping, if we don't we can reuse any plastic grocery bags we might accumulate to line small wastebaskets. Put a few bags in the bottom of the wastebasket before you line it, so there's another one ready to use after one is filled.
3. Gotta have a plan! Plan ahead and shop less often for groceries or shop in conjunction with other errands taking you near a grocery store. The result is a reduction in the use and cost of fuel needed to transport food.
4. Practice the 3 Rs. Produce less waste and save money by practicing the 3 Rs of reduce, reuse and recycle. Here are three examples in relation to throwing away leftover food. Not only does tossing leftovers waste money, it also wastes the energy resources and packaging materials associated with the tossed food.