Do Just One Thing

12/22/10

Empty Altoid tins can easily be tossed in your curbside recycling, but before you do that, think about reusing them. The durable and handy tins can be repurposed into a mini first aid or sewing kit, or even hold spare change in your car.

12/21/10

Want to know how your favorite consumer products rank as an eco-friendly, healthy or ethical brand? It's easy now with The Good Guide (www.goodguide.com). The website's researchers looked at thousands of products ranging from household cleaners to toys and quantified rankings on their environmental, health and social impacts. There's even a Good Guide iPhone App that lets you scan a bar code for instant information, too.

12/20/10

Fruit flies can appear from almost nowhere and turn your tranquil kitchen into a jungle nightmare. Instead of reaching for the chemical insect spray, try this time-tested and nontoxic alternative instead. Simply fill a bowl with white vinegar and add a few drops of liquid dish detergent. The flies will be attracted to the vinegar and the soap will coat their wings, making it impossible for them to fly out. In a few days, your fruit fly problem will be solved.