Shopping
• Returnables. Buy milk and soft drinks in returnable bottles — and be sure to return them. This type of bottle can average 20 trips; you save money (because you get the deposit back) plus the energy needed to make new disposable bottles, cans or milk cartons. By returning them you also avoid the possibility of litter.• Shopping bags. Take your own shopping bags (from previous trips) to the store and insist that the clerk use them rather than new ones. If you're just picking up one or two items, don't use a bag.
• Avoid overpackaging. You know the type. Razor blades come in bubble packages that look like the Houston Astrodome. Some food products come with two or three layers of paper, foil and cardboard. Who needs it? Steer clear of these overpackaged products — or find a place that sells them without the gaudy wrapping. Tell the store manager how you feel. Write to the manufacturer and let him know as well.
• Avoid convenience foods. Highly processed foods often come in elaborate packages. Try to use fresh vegetables where possible. The energy you'll use to cook them will probably be a lot less than the energy used to prepare, pre-cook and preserve a convenience item.
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May 20, 2012