Shiny paper often is considered nonrecyclable, but some glossy paper materials, like magazines and catalogs, are recyclable -- the paper stock is coated with a white clay that makes the pages appear more brilliant, but that shiny surface does not interfere with the recycling process. According to Waste Management, about 45% of all magazines/catalogs are recycled today, which means more than half are still being tossed into the trash. Recycle away!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Using an automatic dishwasher at home is more energy- and water-efficient than washing by hand. And it’s even more efficient if you run the dishwasher during nonpeak hours, which are usually after midnight. But instead of waking up in the middle of the night to turn on the dishwasher, check to see if yours has a “delay” feature. This allows you to fill up the dishwasher during the day and delay the wash cycle so it will automatically start whenever you want, preferably during nonpeak hours.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

There’s another reason to consider solar instead of hardwired when it comes to outdoor lighting. Yes, it harnesses the power of the sun’s rays to charge up solar panels, which makes it incredibly energy-efficient. But the solar lights' lower intensity is also good for wildlife. Birds often can be disoriented by bright lights, so solar lights' subdued glow makes them a better choice. Insects, amphibians and reptiles all benefit from solar lighting, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION