Do Just One Thing

Who would think that storing and sending PDF documents over email could place a significant strain on the environment? Image-heavy PDFs are large files, which puts a strain on servers storing documents in the cloud or sending them via email. So even though they’re paperless, they cause the consumption of a lot of energy. To help, always compress your PDFs to the smallest size possible. It’s easy to do and can cut back on the strain on data servers.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It’s obvious that kitchen scraps like vegetable peels and eggshells are best composted and turned into beneficial mulch. But for those who can’t compost, which is the better option: the garbage disposal or the trash? It depends on where you live. If you live in a community where water is scarce, opt to throw those scraps into the trash. But if water isn’t scarce and you’re on a public system, go with the disposal. The water treatment plant can handle the waste and capture methane gas (which a landfill environment would create from your scraps).

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you’re an avid composter, it may seem like a no-brainer to toss avocado skins and pits into the compost bin. And why not? They’re totally organic and biodegradable. But the reality is, avocado waste is very slow to decompose and can ruin your compost if you have too much rind in the mix. If you want to compost it, cut the peels into small strips or squares. And if you're feeling adventurous, toss a pit into rich, finished compost -- it could grow into a mini avocado tree.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION