Organizing to Be Green

Part of the Green and Frugal Series

There are so many more ways to be green and environmentally aware these days, things that were not available just a few years ago; recycling is now widespread and appliances and gadgets are available to help out. Here are some of the organizing tools that I use that are ecologically friendly:

–A sharpie pen — I have previously written about how a permanent marker has enabled me to reduce food waste, use up leftovers while there still fresh, and take advantage of seasonal produce.  I find that I need the help of clearly marked and labeled items to cut down on waste.

–A high quality scanner — I have tried to digitize as many things as possible, using the scanner and email to send documents to clients, store receipts, and keep digital copies of essential documents.  This saves a lot of paper and ink toner from being wasted.  In addition, digital files are a lot easier to store and manage than paper folders, and they save space as well.

–A calendar with recycling dates clearly marked – in our town, the recycling pickup is only once every two weeks.  Clearly marking when paper, bottles and plastic will be picked up, helps to keep the bins from overflowing.

–Sturdy, reusable bins in the bathroom and kitchen to hold a range of different things — I find having strong  bins to hold things works much better than the less sturdy ones that need to be disposed of.

see other organizing tips at Works for Me Wednesday