Enviroshopping

Shopping with the environment in mind starts at the store. In addition to price, quality and nutritional value, consider the environmental impact products have. Think about disposal at the time of purchase. As a consumer, you send a message to manufacturers with every dollar you spend. Every sale takes a toll on the planet, so encourage the use of environmentally-friendly products by purchasing them.

• Take a canvas bag to the grocery store or reuse bags from a previous trip. Recycle bags you don't need.
• Purchase products made of recycled contents. Stationery, paper towels, toilet paper, tissues, computer paper, napkins and wrapping paper made from recycled materials are of the same quality as paper products made from trees.
• Buy in bulk and avoid individually wrapped servings. Economy-size products use less packaging and often cost less per ounce.
• Consider concentrates: beverages and soups can be mixed in reusable containers rather than purchased in bottles or cans. Detergents and soaps also come in concentrated form.
• Avoid excess packaging, such as a bottle inside a box. Buy produce and flowers without packaging when possible.
• Buy products in recyclable containers and remember to recycle them. Look for the recycling symbol on the package and make sure the material is accepted in your recycling program.
• Think durable instead of disposable. Use sponges, linens and rags instead of paper towels and napkins. At your next purchase, consider refillable pens and lighters, rechargeable batteries and razors with replaceable blades.
• Buy quality products that will last a long time. The initial investment may cost more but often saves money in the long run. Well-made products need less repair and won't have to be replaced, and discarded, as frequently.
• Extend product life through proper maintenance and repair instead of replacement. Many items such as lamps and furniture, automotive parts, appliances and electronic equipment can get a new lease on life by being rebuilt or refurbished.
• Consider renting items you use infrequently to cut down on the packaging and products you discard. Almost anything can be rented, including formal wear, costumes and party supplies, gardening or cleaning tools, furniture, computers and recreational equipment.

Consult your local telephone directory to find services and locations near you.