One of the key ways you can green your lifestyle is by following what I call the 3-Rs: Reduce, Re-use and Recycle – more or less in that order. To start reducing, think about the different ways you can lower your consumption. Buying and consuming less means you produce less waste – so maybe a simple first step is resolving to only buy products with the fewest ingredients and minimal packaging. So in your mind, replace the old adage “more is better” with “less is more.”

Buying food and goods produced locally can significantly cut the amount of energy required to transport them from far away places and not coincidentally, the associated carbon emissions. It also keeps the flow of currency in your community supporting the local economy.

Another important way you can reduce consumption is by re-using things either by donating them or giving them to other people who can use them rather than just tossing them out. Of course, if your stuff has reached the end of its lifecycle then the last resort is to recycle it.

But take the time to consider the second R and the different ways you can give a second or even third life to some of your possessions, either by patching, repairing or giving them away to someone else. Clothing swaps and shopping at thrift stores are a great way to re-use clothing, shoes, accessories, and furnishings for your home. Many thrift stores have merchandise that is almost like new and they use the money from your purchases to support worthy causes.

Another important thing you can do, is repair things around your house so that you can either re-use them or give them away in a condition that allows others to make use of them.

The Daily Green put together this cute little slide show with their suggestions for 15 Things You Should Repair Instead of Replace which includes some unexpected items towards the end!

While you’re there, check out their link to 17 Things You Can Rent Instead of Buying for a chuckle!