ArcaMax

Of the 6 million tons of trash that make it into the world's oceans every year, about 80% is plastic. The major threats to aquatic wildlife, including food packaging like six-pack rings, cling wrap and plastic sandwich bags, are often inadvertently dropped at the coasts by beachgoers. Even if they're deposited into a trash receptacle, a strong ...Read more

Take a moment to collect foreign currency that you brought back from abroad over the past few years. While it's nice to have these souvenirs, you can donate the funds to help someone else in need. UNICEF, the global charity that saves children's lives all over the world, takes your foreign currency and puts it to good use. You can fill an ...Read more

Donating used items to charity is a great way to find a new home for your old things, get a tax deduction and help a worthwhile nonprofit raise funds. But some items are not acceptable for donation, so it's best to ask before you drop off. In general, there are four categories of goods that are very difficult to donate and should either be ...Read more

Food insecurity is a growing issue in communities across the country. While donating canned goods is always appreciated, there are other items that can make an even bigger difference. Coffee and tea are often considered luxuries for those in need, so if you spot a sale, stock up and donate. Condiments like ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce and hot ...Read more

It’s well known that cutting produce, meat and other foods on plastic cutting boards can lead to microplastics ending up in your meals. Some companies now market “recycled” plastic boards to give them an eco-friendly spin, but while the intention is good, the result is not. Whether virgin or recycled, plastic still sheds microplastics. Opt...Read more

Mouthwash works because it has antiseptic and antibacterial properties to help keep your mouth fresh and clean. But did you know you can use it to help fix other problems? Smelly gym clothes build up odor-causing bacteria in the synthetic fibers over time that normal laundry routines won’t kill. Adding a cup of mouthwash to the laundry when ...Read more

Do you use protective gloves when you're cleaning around the house or washing dishes? Almost all gloves are made from nonbiodegradable synthetic materials like polyvinyl chloride. If you want to protect your hands, look for gloves that are made with natural materials like rubber or latex. Just be sure they're 100% plant-based rubber or latex and...Read more

Though it’s more energy-efficient to dry your clothes on a clothesline, there are times when you need to use a dryer. To make it as efficient as possible, place your dryer in a warm spot in the home (a cold garage or basement may not be the best place), since this will reduce the time the machine needs to warm up. Use the delay function to ...Read more

When storing your recyclables outdoors, be sure to keep them in a shaded area and not in direct sunlight. In the warmer months (and in climates that are drier than others), keeping metal cans and glass bottles outside with bright, shining light on them can create a fire hazard. Keeping them in shaded areas ensures the recyclables won't get ...Read more