Cut the Clutter

How do you really feel about the state of the house? Here’s a quick test: imagine that the doorbell rings. Is there panic in the pit of your stomach at the possibility of unexpected guests—or a bill collector? You’re not alone. For many, clutter, disorganization, and dirt interfere with the day-to-day business of life at home.

Taking aim on clutter is a great first step to

more sustainable living. Tackle domestic

chaos and live a greener life with these tips:

▪ Bag the bags. Stow reusable shopping

bags on a hook near the car keys. They’ll be

easy to grab on your way out the door—and

will stop plastic supermarket sacks from

invading your organized home.

▪ Junk the junk mail. Removing your

address from direct mail databases and calling

catalog companies with stop requests takes

time up-front, but saves the household—and

Mother Earth!—from being buried in

unwanted paper.

▪ Set free the surplus. Recycling or

repurposing unneeded appliances, clothing,

tools, and craft supplies not only clears

storage space, but also gives these items

a new and useful life.

▪ Waste packaging waste. Smart menu

planning means less reliance on single-serve

or convenience food items—and a

corresponding reduction in needless food

packaging. Build a pantry and buy in bulk to

keep packaging waste to a minimum.