Junk accumulates and fast. This year we decided that we were going to earn money through minimalism. For more about that theme click here. While it’s great to unload our homes of these unwanted items, we should consider the effect that our things will have on the environment. Here are 5 things to think about:

1. Consider reusing before recycling
   There are so many things that we can reuse instead of throwing away and/or recycling. One example is a gift bag. Whenever I’m given a gift bag, I fold it and keep it for a future occasion. I don’t have a huge stash, but I rarely need to buy a gift bag for any occasion.
2. When you can’t reuse, recycle everything  you can
   Most areas have recycling services that pick up your paper, metal, and glass products on a regular basis. Take advantage of these services that transform things that you no longer need into new materials.
3. Bring your clothes to a consignment store, sell them, or donate them.
   If your clothes are in great condition you can try to sell them in a consignment store or on several online sites to recover some of your investment. If you don’t have the time and/or prefer to give it to a charitable organization, there are several that will be willing to receive them. In certain countries, you are given a tax receipt for your donation.
4. Regift
   We have all received a gift that we never used and will never use. Why not give it to someone else who will? This will not only help your pocketbook, but also the environment.
5. Sell
   There are so many individuals who buy things both new and old – old computers for parts, old furniture. With the DIY movement growing, people are always looking for a good deal to work on their personal projects.

There you have it 5 things we can do to make our homes and planet a better place. RT family, what about you? How do you eliminate things from your home without leaving a footprint on the environment?