1. Skip single-serving items, which require more packaging per unit. Overpackaged offenders include frozen foods and lunch and snack items.

2. Purchase juice concentrates. You supply the water and pitcher and skip the large plastic container.

3. Avoid disposable goods, including razors, lighters, and plastic plates.

4. Use your own canvas or string bags at the grocery store. If you do use plastic, return it to the store for recycling; most stores have collection spots. Paper bags can hold other papers for recycling.

5. Use produce bags only for moist or small, loose items, such as lettuce and berries.

6. When possible, purchase goods in cans or glass instead of plastic containers. Glass can be recycled indefinitely.

7. Look for multipurpose cleaners instead of buying one for each kind of surface.

8. Close the loop. Purchase products that have themselves been made from recycled materials. For example, Seventh Generation makes paper products from 100 percent recycled materials.