Recycling is the thing to do my friends. Of course there is the typical glass, plastic, aluminum, and paper recycling. There are some who are devoted to such causes and recycle their water and trash to create compost.

That may be a lot to ask, but this mindset has great discipline and devotion to our planet. Whether you are a weekend recycler or daily warrior, we should all do our parts to keep this planet healthy, clean and green.

Global Warming is a Myth… Right?

There has been a lot of debate of global warming and human footprints. Some call it a farce. Others swear we are ruining our planet’s future. To tell you the truth, who really knows right?

But let’s consider this… regardless if global warming is true or not, we still need to practice wasting less in our lives. We should educate both ourselves and our children to reduce our wastes and make good use of what we already have.

Why?

It saves money. It creates a disciplined mindset. And we learn to love something bigger than ourselves… our planet. As a result of this love, we can further strengthen the love we have for ourselves. This discipline will assist us in making disciplined and tough choices that are not swayed by a frail ego, but with a strong spirit.

Regardless if global warming is true, the benefits of conservation outweigh the time and effort. Not only do we exercise discipline and love for our being, we also create a healthier outlook for the environment and the amazing creatures that inhabit it.

We cannot deny that our litter drowns our oceans and sea life. Sea Gulls and Seals all suffocate under the trash that is carelessly tossed aside. I dare you to hike up into the local city mountains and ignore the heavy smog that blankets your city. Perhaps you should try jogging in such conditions and see how your lungs and breathing are affected.

Global Warming or not, humans are still affecting our environment in negative ways. So let’s do our part to give back what we take.

Monk’dify It: What Else Can It Do

Eco Green tips range from reusable diapers to front load washer and dryers. Many of these tips can be found on MonkMe and other eco green sites. In this article, we will focus on everyday items that can have dual purposes.

Simply put, ANYTHING can be used as art. A creative mind can use anything available to present an artistic vision. Grab some items together and be clever. What looks good? A friend of mine framed some old “Simpsons” stamps and displays it proudly. I’ve seen folks with old calendars and magazines/records as framed art as well.

1.    Glass Jars/Glass Bottles – These are wonderful as drinking glasses or container storage. Store small screws or buttons. Homemade sauces and dressings work too.

2.    Old Semi-Clean Water – Water your plants with ice and water from an unfinshed drink or use it to flush your toilets. We waste a lot of water in our showers and when we wash dishes. Reuse what you can.

3.    Plastic Bags – If you don’t already have reusable bags, get some. Many places give them out for free or for a small cost. For the rest of the plastic bags that you have, use them as garbage can liners, wastebasket trash, and pet waste removal.

4.    Water Bottles – These can be great as a pet toy. Twist it up the plastic and add some pet food. Your pet will enjoy working the food out from the bottle. These bottles are also great for a temporary flower vase. Again please don’t forget to recycle when done.

5.    Burnt Cd’s – Have a lot of those old burned dvd’s/cd’s? Use them as coasters!!

6.    Lint and Old Dryer Sheets – Old lint from your dryer is an excellent fire starter. Gather some up and press it into a brick. Store in a cool dry place for emergencies. This is a great fire starter. Please see Eco Monk’s Survival Kits. Old dryer sheets are great as closet/drawer fresheners and keeps your shoes smelling great.

7.    Old cases from Airlines or Candy – There are a lot of cases and containers that are given out on airline flights. These are great to hold other items from digital electronics to vitamins. Old candy containers are also great for storage. Store matches, stamps, to even loose leaf tea.

8.    Medicine Bottles – Store vitamins and other medicines that you buy in bulk. Don’t forget to label your bottles so you know what’s in there.

9.    Old Tile or Wooden Planks – Make sure you use clean, leftover tile or planks. These are great as party dishes to display your array of cheese, fruits and meats.

10.  Old Cell Phones – The cell phones nowadays are capable of so much. From a media player to a video recorder, these old phones can be used for other things than just making phone calls so give it as a gift or donate them. By law every cell phone can be used to call emergency services even when deactivated.

11.  Egg cartons – Use old cartons as seedling planters for your garden or just packaging to protect fragile items.

12.  Yogurt Cups – use the old yogurt cups that come with the plastic lids as single serving puddings, jello, or even use them as camping cups.

13.  Old Blankets and Clothes – If you’re not going to wear them, use them for pet bedding. If you have the skills, take the fabric and make other items such as bags, socks, shorts or any other item. You can also use old blankets for tarp and covering, especially needed during moves. A few blankets can easily make a comfortable warm sleeping bag. And don’t forget vintage used clothes! What a fun treasure hunt this can be.

14.  Old Used Printer Paper – Print on both sides if you can. And with the used printouts, make your own scrap notebooks for basic notes and doodles. Of course don’t forget to recycle.

15.  Old Newspaper and Comics – These can be used as book covers and gift wrapping.  Make it personal with sports pages or favorite comic strips to design your gift.

16.  Extra Rope – Use it for gift wrappings. Use it for homemade bracelets. Make your own candles with some wax.

Use your imagination. Make use of everything to reduce our waste. Reduce. Reuse. And Recycle.

What can you reuse?