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2. Buy “Recycled”
Many common items can be found with “recycled content.” Just look for the label!
Paper products: Copy paper, notebooks, napkins, toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates.
Toiletries: Recycled tooth brushes and razors at Recycline.com.
Carpet: Most manufacturers offer recycled content carpet.
Ink Cartridges: For your printer or copier.
Motor Oil: America’s Choice is 100% Recycled.
Paint: Sarasota County Recycled Paint: Household Chemical Collection Center, 8750 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota 941-861-1531
3. Buy local and support sustainable businesses
Do your shopping at a locally-owned stores whenever possible. Supporting local business stimulates the regional economy and saves the energy involved in shipping goods long distances.
Find green businesses in Sarasota County:
Sarasota Green Connection
Sustainable Sarasota Business Partners
Find green businesses anywhere in the U.S.:
Co-op America’s Green Pages
Fair Trade Federation Stores
4. Think carefully about what you need
Before you make a purchase, think carefully about whether or not you need this product. Keep these questions in mind:
How often will I use this item?
Do I have something similar at home that can serve the same purpose?
Can I find a used version of this item for a lower price?
Can I borrow one from a friend or neighbor?
Am I prepared to maintain and/or repair this item when necessary?
How long will I keep this item?
How will I dispose of this item when it is no longer useful?
These questions will help you make smarter purchases, saving you money in the long run.
5. Shop at reuse centers
No matter what you need, chances are you can find a used version of the same or similar quality for a lower price. By purchasing used items, you not only save money but you save waste from the landfill. Check out local reuse, consignment and thrift stores, or look in the classifieds or online for used items.
Craig's List: Classifieds
Ebay.com
Goodwill, Inc.
Habitat For Humanity Home Improvement Outlet 1757 East Ave., Sarasota 941-363-0777
Sarasota Architectural Salvage 1093 Central Ave., Sarasota 941-258-7730
6. Look for low-waste products
Choose products with minimal to no packaging. This reduces waste for you and is a great way to support eco-friendly marketing. When possible, buy in bulk. Bring your own bags and containers that you can reuse in the bulk foods section. Avoid styrofoam packaging, which takes a long time to biodegrade. Choose low-waste products instead of individually-wrapped items.
ECO-Tips: Reduce Waste
7. Find eco-friendly alternatives for all your needs
From low-toxic cleaners to recyclable toothbrushes, eco-friendly products to fill all your household needs:
Conscious Consumer Marketplace
Earth Mart
Eco-Mall
Fair Trade Certified Products
Forest Certified Products
Green Earth Office Supply
The Green Guide
Real Goods
8. Eat sustainably
Choose fresh, seasonal foods that support sustainable agriculture and the local economy.
ECO-Tips: Sustainable Foods
Foodroutes.org
Local Harvest
9. Choose energy efficiency
Look for the ENERGYSTAR label to choose the most efficient products when purchasing your home appliances. Buy compact fluorescent bulbs, which last up to ten times as long as incandescent bulbs.
ENERGYSTAR Products
10. Look for a "green" car
If you're shopping for a new or used automobile, look for a model with the highest fuel efficiency that fits your needs. New hybrid-electric vehicles can get up to 57 miles per gallon!
ECO-Tips: Fuel Efficient Driving
EPA Green Vehicle Guide
Greener Cars
US Dept. of Energy: Fuel Efficient Cars
11. Don’t forget reusable shopping bags!
Take along your own cloth or plastic bags to reduce waste while shopping. Look for a grocery store or
co-op that provides a rebate for consumers who bring their own bags.
Click here for information on Environmentally Preferable Purchasing for Businesses and Offices.
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