Packing light when you travel has two benefits: It’s easier for you to get around, and it reduces your carbon footprint. When you check a heavy bag for a flight, it requires more fuel to transport to your destination. Opting for a carry-on bag instead helps save fuel, but it also helps you realize that you really don’t need tons of wardrobe options when you travel. To help lighten the load, bring waterless toiletries and lightweight clothing that can be handwashed and re-worn.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

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