A popular gift for all sorts of occasions is a fresh flower arrangement. If you're someone who has received such a gift, the cabinet under your sink may be full of old vases you've collected and stashed over the years. The next time you order flowers for someone, opt to send the bouquet without a vase. Also, your local florist will gladly take back vases so they can reuse them. Some flower shops even reward you with free flowers when you do this, too.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you're a parent throwing a birthday party for your child, why not invite other moms and dads to come to the party and do a toy swap? While the kids are playing, parents can go through bags of unused toys and trade with each other. It’s a great way to reuse toys, save money and give new-to-them toys to your kids. Whatever doesn’t get swapped can be bundled together and donated to a local charity, like Goodwill.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Did you know nearly 5 million pounds of wrapping paper is used every year in the United States (with the majority used during the holiday season)? While the greenest option is to go gift wrap-free when exchanging gifts, the next best thing is to be resourceful. Raid the office recycling bin for gift wrap freebies! Color copies of charts, graphs, reports, photos and other office-y designs make for green, gorgeous gift wrap. Ask an architect's office if they have old blueprints. Be resourceful and wrap away!

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION