When you’re using your oven to bake dinner for a crowd, one of the worst things you can do to affect the food and your utility bill is to open the oven door unnecessarily. Ovens use a lot of energy to get hot, and every time you open the door, the temperature drops by about 25 degrees. When you close it, the oven uses more energy to get back up to the programmed temperature. This also can affect the final outcome of dishes -- especially baked treats. Use the oven light instead of opening the door to check on whatever you’re cooking.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Yes, even releasing one helium balloon into the sky can be seriously damaging for the environment. Researchers at the University of Michigan studied the environmental impact of balloons and found some can travel thousands of miles. When they pop, they pose a serious threat to wildlife who mistake them for food. For example, sea turtles can confuse balloons for jellyfish. Even “biodegradable” ones pose a threat; after 16 weeks in different environments, these balloons did not degrade.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

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