Do you have a household budget? How much do you allocate each month for garbage? That is to say: How much money do you allow yourself to indulge in throwing into the trash?

It has been shown that 99% of all manufactured goods, from plastic wrapping to automobiles to houses ends up in the trash (http://www.storyofstuff.com/). NINETY-NINE PERCENT! Think of a typical week at your house. How many times is trash collected? Do you have one of those large bins? Do you know where that trash goes after it leaves your house? Do you think it just vanishes?

Here are some tips to help reduce the amount of WASTE your home may be producing. Most of these tips are very easy, and can save you money at the check-out line!

• Reduce the amount of packaging you buy, reuse what you can, and recycle the rest
• Look for products without packaging – tools, fresh produce, dry goods
• Avoid individually wrapped portions (cheese slices, juice, etc.)
• Choose concentrated products in reusable containers, and largest size containers
• Buy frozen foods in plastic bags rather than boxes. A 28-oz. bag of frozen corn is 59% less expensive and results in 98% less waste than buying the equivalent weight in single-serving 4.5 oz. boxes
• Avoid disposable razors, pens, pencils and lighters
• Take your own mug or thermos to the coffee shop. Some shops will offer a discounted price when you provide your own container
• Use your own reusable canvas or string bags when shopping
• If you do opt for paper or plastic grocery bags, take them back to the store to be recycled

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