Eco-friendly Shopping

1. Buy less. Not only will this save you money and time, but you will find you can appreciate what you already have. Do you really need the item? Is there something you already have that will fill its purpose? If it’s a more expensive item, sometimes simple repairs can correct the problem or you may also find a used one that works just as well.

2. Try to reuse what you have. Ask around for unused items, look online for deals, and be creative. Instead of buying furniture, rearrange and/or repaint items for a new look. Changing buttons on clothes, reupholstering furniture, and repairing wears and tears can create something that looks new using what you already have.

3. Use eco-discrimination. Use your consumer power to find companies that are environmentally conscious in such aspects as production, marketing, packaging, and recycling. Look for Energy-Star labels on appliances, buy local to reduce long-distance shipping, and for consumables, look for things like “organic,” “not tested on animals,” and “fair trade.”

4. Think of ways you can save. Some companies like Gaiam offer credits you can buy to offset the carbon footprint of your purchase. Try to pick up the merchandise yourself, refuse the extra bag, and reuse packaging materials like cardboard.

5. Look towards the future. Choose products that are designed to last. For example, some floor mops are designed to be replaced and require that you keep buying disposable towellettes. Instead, find an old-style mop with a sturdy handle and a quality pad that you can clean, wash and reuse. Pick quality products that will last you a long time - not only will you save the environment, but you will save money as well.