Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Restore.

The Four R's
In honor of Earth Day, we felt this is the perfect opportunity to remind us all of the importance of following the 4 R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Restore. How many times have we said to ourselves that what we do in our homes can't possibly make a difference for the planet? Well, there are lots of easy, "green" steps that you can take, right in your own home - right now - that make a big difference for your home, your neighborhood and the planet. All that it requires is a slight shift in your thinking - and we promise that you won't feel a thing!

Reduce. You'll see it on Oprah or Dr. Phil - de-clutter your life, simplify it, rid your home of excess stuff. The key is that once you de-clutter your life to keep it that way. This is where the shift in thinking takes place. Ask yourself: Do I really need this? Is there an option that has less packaging or one that's more recyclable? Can I buy this product concentrated? Can I buy it in bulk? Is there a product that serves more than one purpose, thus requiring less stuff? In a nutshell: Buy and use only what you need.
Super Easy Step: Buy one product in bulk this month- shampoo, trail mix, whatever. Take your container back every time you need more. Most major markets and stores have bulk isles.

Reuse. This is an area that can directly affect your wallet - in a positive way. A perfect example is to gently wash and dry your plastic baggies - they can be used multiple times before they wear out (don't turn inside out - it ruins the seal).
Super Easy Step: Bring your own travel coffee mug to your favorite coffee house. You'll save a ton of non-recyclable foam cups from heading into the landfill plus many of the coffee places in town will discount your coffee (if you order a large, they charge you the medium price). Wahoo!!

Recycle. Did you know that you can reduce your trash bill by recycling more and downsizing your trash can? On average, half of what's in your trash can be recycled - mostly paper. Here's what to do. Simply put your paper items in with other recyclables and place inside your recycle bin. The lovely folks at your local recycling plant will sort and separate for you - they make it so easy it's hard not to recycle. Call and ask them what you can do to reduce your trash bill. With the majority of landfills expected to be at capacity in less than 35 years, they're more than happy to provide any information they can to help you recycle more.
Super Easy Step: Keep a "trash" can in the kitchen for recycled goods and one for non-recyclable items. Empty into your recycle can as needed (hint - it should be twice as often as your trash can)

Restore. Be thrifty. Repair damaged goods - save them from the landfill. Buy used. You can get some incredible deals at yard sales and thrift shops. Many times little to nothing needs to be done, so don't feel like you need to be crafty to get a good deal.
Super Easy Step: This year for your summer BBQ, save the plastic cups that don't compost and visit a local thrift store. For pennies you can pick up assorted glasses to use throughout the summer. You'll save money on disposable cups and will have glasses for use next year as well. (check out freecycle.org for your local chapter to , get, give or trade unwanted "stuff" for free.)

We promised it wouldn't hurt! If you'd like more information on ways to reduce your ecological footprint, come on by our store - or email us at solutions@greenfeet.com We'll help you any way we can. Happy Earth Month!