Be Tree-Free
As much as possible, create a tree-free home:
- replace paper napkins with cloth napkins
- replace paper towels with a special set of cloth towels/napkins (or cut up old t-shirts for great towels) – store the used ones in a small container in your kitchen and just wash and reuse
- purchase bleach-free, toilet paper that is made from the highest post-consumer waste content you can find (80% minimum)
- if you print documents, print on once-used paper and/or bleach-free, recycled paper with the highest post-consumer waste content available (or hemp/alternative-source paper, if you can afford it)
- create and use note pads from once-used paper
- leave messages for family members/roommates on a reusable message board
- make your own cards/letters from once-used products or handmade paper
- if you will be doing construction on your house, search out alternatives to using newly cut wood (no endorsement of any company intended):
- Eco-Friendly Flooring Guide
- straw bale
- bamboo — two sites to check out: Plyboo and Teragren
- true (natural) linoleum
- previously used wood — one site to check out: Vintage Timber Works
- cob — three sites to check out: Cob, Cob Cottage, and EcoBusiness-Cob Building Resources
- composite decking – The Latest Trend in Decking
Original Post by Global Stewards.
