Adopting a "zero-waste" lifestyle There are two rules of thumb for reducing waste. First, reuse, compost or recycle as many things as you can instead of throwing them away. When it comes to replacing plastic items, look for sustainable, long-lasting alternatives such as cotton, glass, stainless steel and wood. Here are other ideas for reducing waste: In the garden Learn to compost and turn food scraps, yard trimmings and other organic waste into compost that can increase water retention and decrease erosion. Raise your lawnmower's cutting height during the summer to keep grass roots shaded and reduce the need for watering. Try your hand at growing your own veggies, fruits and herbs. In the kitchen Save wilted vegetables by incorporating them into frittatas and stews or roasting them in batches for freezing. Some leafy greens can even be revitalized by soaking the stems in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes. Hold onto extra wine by freezing it in an ice cube tray for cooking later. Hard cheeses, diced vegetables, fresh herbs and other leftovers can also be frozen for future use. Stale loaves of bread can be revived by sprinkling the crust with water and baking for 8 to 10 minutes. They can also be turned into French toast, breadcrumbs or croutons. In case of messes, reach for washable dish towels, not disposable paper ones. Properly store food in airtight glass containers or in reusable beeswax paper. Out and about Remember to bring reusable cups to coffee shops and reusable cloth bags to the grocery store and mall. Before buying new furniture, clothes, bicycles or household items, see if they can be purchased secondhand at yard sales and thrift stores. Make a shopping list before heading to the grocery store and buy beans, grains, nuts, pasta and other dry goods in bulk when possible. During the holiday season Send guests home with leftovers. Wrap gifts in recycled wrapping paper, grocery bags, newspaper or fabric. Tie them with materials from around the house, such as twine, metal wire or leftover ribbon or yarn. Consider giving gifts with minimal packaging, such as tickets, gift certificates, baked goods or live bushes, shrubs, or trees that can be planted in the spring.
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