12 Months to a More Sustainable 2014

Resolutions  are tough.  Most people toss in the towel by the end of January, because they just try to make many changes all at once.  You don't have to look farther than the weather report to wonder if our actions are affecting our planet.  If you want to be more thoughtful and less wasteful for the environment in 2014,  I'm going to make it easy for you.  I will offer up one or two ideas for   each month, and by the end of 2014 - you will be a Green Rockstar!

For January, I am going to encourage you to:

Recycle  Styrofoam - also known as EPS.  

Quick Facts About EPS

In 1999, an estimated 300,000 tons of EPS was landfilled in California at an estimated cost of $30 million. Due to its light weight, EPS is a large source of litter both on land and in waterways. Cities bear the cost of cleaning up this material with clean-up costs for litter estimated at over one dollar per pound. Collecting EPS and directing it towards recycling helps save money and is good for the environment.

Source:  City of Roseville 

Instead of tossing it in your bin, recycle it.   In Roseville we have recycle bins for EPS.    The link  above explains the program for residents of Roseville.

Regardless of where you live, if you have some packing peanuts to dispose of,  Check out this website.  The Plastic Loose Fill Council If was formed in 1991, to encourage the reuse of "packing peanuts".    It will offer up a place you can drop it off.

Did you get through the holidays without collecting any EPS?  I have a different tip for you...  

Rethink single use plastic bags.  
 Step one:  Recycle all those plastic shopping bags that are robbing precious space in your kitchen or pantry.   In front of grocery stores you will find a bin that says recycle bags here.  Bring your reusable bags next time you shop, and clear out that drawer.

Step two: While you are there, recycle the clear film that covers many products that we buy.  That plastic film can be recycled in the same place at the same time. 

Step three:  Make a habit of using reusable bags.  Remember to wash them as needed.
Do you always forget to take your bags with you?  I have a solution - just ask the checker to load it back into your cart, and transfer it into your bags at the car.  After a few times of this exercise you will remember!


Those are your Live Green, Less Waste tips for January.