Do you regularly buy disposable juice boxes? While convenient, these boxes are environmental disasters, since they are difficult to recycle and end up as trash just moments after they've been opened. What's the solution? Invest in a reusable juice box. The new designs are made with sturdy materials, and they are refillable. They have the same shape as a disposable box, but are designed to be used over and over, and they even have an integrated reusable straw. Not only are they eco-friendly, they'll save you money, too, since you can fill them up from larger (and cheaper) recyclable jugs of juice.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Do you have unused and unopened cosmetics in your home? Or maybe you got a gift with a recent purchase and thought it would be nice to donate the cosmetics to someone in need? The nonprofit Cosmetics for a Cause is a clearinghouse that accepts unused cosmetics and distributes them to women in need. Their mission is simple: "When a woman feels beautiful on the outside, she can begin to gain the inner strength she needs to succeed." To give your (unopened and never used cosmetics), visit cosmeticsforacause.org.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Here's a simple and smart way to upcycle your old orange peels: Make them into an eco-friendly household cleaner. Fill a glass jar with white vinegar and place the peels from three or four oranges inside. Let it sit for seven to 10 days, then strain the liquid and transfer it to a spray bottle for an orange-infused vinegar that can be used as an all-purpose cleaner around the house. The white vinegar is a natural disinfectant, and the natural oils from the citrus work as a degreaser. It smells great, too!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION