Planting ECO tip: Choose native plants with brightly colored red, purple and yellow flowers if you want to attract birds and provide shelter. Providing a source of water, whether by natural springs, birdbaths, or ponds, will also help to attract birds and other wildlife.
Recycle, repurpose, resell: As you throw open the windows and breathe in the fresh spring air, you may be tempted to scrap items just to move them out quickly. But before you add to the landfill, ask yourself, “Might someone else use this?” or “How can I use this thing in another way?” An old ladder can become a bookshelf, a boot can become a planter—the options are endless! Google “repurposing old items” to get the creative juices flowing. You can even make a little cash by selling items on sites like Facebook Marketplace, Let go, and Craigslist.
Create less waste: It’s estimated that Americans waste about 40% of the food they buy. To lower your food waste and save money, pay attention to what’s in your fridge. Create a grocery list before you shop and stick to it, so you don’t buy things you don’t need. And be careful when buying bulk. Though it seems cheaper, if you must throw some away, it gets pricier and wasteful. Freeze the food you don’t plan to use soon to extend its life. And try freezing leftovers for later, so you don’t get tired of a certain dish and toss it.
Start a garden: Growing your own food is healthy and it helps reduce your carbon footprint. You don’t have to drive to the store or use a plastic bag to hold the items once purchased. Simply meander to the yard and fill a bowl with goodies. If you don’t have the space for a large plot of land, pots will do just fine. As an added benefit, having a garden may encourage you to compost, which also lessens the load on the landfill. Growfoodeasily.com is a very friendly website that can help you get started.