When you see bags of seashells in the store for vase filler or crafting use, or lots of giant almost-perfect shell specimens for sale, don't purchase them. As nautical design continues to gain popularity, these shells aren't collected carefully or by hand. They are often dragged out of the ocean by trawlers or nets, which pick up large numbers of shells off the ocean floor. They also pick up other aquatic wildlife, killing them in the process. Admire shells at the beach, and think of a new design aesthetic.

Sure, bamboo is an eco-friendly material, but it may not be the best material to use in your kitchen when you're cooking up a storm. Most bamboo utensils like spatulas and large spoons are glued together in strips, and using them in hot pots or boiling water can actually cause the glue to melt and possibly seep into your food. To avoid this risk, look for solid options -- literally -- like single-piece wooden utensils or stainless steel.

The next time you drop off a bag of used clothing at your local Goodwill, think about bringing your old laptop or desktop computers. The nonprofit has partnered with Dell to take back any old computer (it does not need to be a Dell). The trained staff inspects the computers to see if they can be reused, refurbished or recycled. The proceeds from the computer donation benefit Goodwill's charitable works, and it helps keep old technology out of landfills. Plus, it's free to recycle.