Here’s something you can stop using: fabric softener. While it’s touted as a product to help clothes feel smoother and reduce static cling, it’s also completely unnecessary. The chemical residue that’s left on clothing can irritate skin, build up on clothes and lead to your washing machine working less efficiently over time. But if you want your clothes to feel softer and have less static cling, do this: Invest in wool dryer balls. They do the same thing as your fabric softener, but without the chemicals or extra cost.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

The nonprofit The Wildlife Trust says there’s one simple thing pet owners can do to help lower their dog and cat’s carbon footprint. They say for pets on a meat-based diet, look for protein sources from poultry, like chicken and turkey, and avoid beef, which has the highest environmental footprint for meats. Opt for sustainable seafood sources, and, the charity says, “while they might seem like a good idea, human consumption-grade meats used in high-end pet foods put additional pressure on our food production systems.” Look for meat byproducts like bonemeal and organ meat.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

One of the easiest ways to help combat climate change is to plant a tree. But did you know that some trees aren’t as good at absorbing and storing CO2 emissions as others? The U.S. Forest Service did a study in 2002 that researched which trees in an urban environment did the best to absorb CO2. Trees like black walnut, ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, red oak, bald cypress and red and white pines top the list. These trees also are easy to maintain. After all, trees that demand gas-guzzling equipment like trucks and chainsaws will only erase any eco gains.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION