We recycle and compost more than 70% of our waste and try to reduce the amount of waste we bring into our home. When we must buy items with ridiculous amounts of packaging, we recycle everything we can and reuse all the parts possible. -Claudia & Richard, Utopia

When I have lots of throw rugs to wash, I hang them outside to dry...saving electricity! -Daphney, Houston

I collect water from the condensation drain on my central A/C. During the summer, it makes 20-30 gallons of water per day! I then use the water for my plants and trees. -Brian, San Antonio

When I work in my yard, I use organic weed & feed products that do not cause overgrowth. I also use vinegar instead of commercial weed killers. -LeeLu, Pearland

I buy holiday and gift cards made of recycled paper. -Diana, Austin

Instead of using wrapping paper and gift bags, I am putting Christmas gifts in reusable grocery bags. The recipients won't have waste to worry about and no excuses for "paper or plastic" on their next shopping trip. - Paige, Fort Worth

Once a light bulb has burned out, I replace it with a CFL. Eventually, my entire home will contain CFL's. - Jean, Corpus Christi

I use a rain barrel to collect rainwater for watering my outdoor plants; its better for the plants and easier on my water bill. Sometimes I even use the rainwater to wash my dog! - Cynthia, Richardson

I challenge my family to conserve water by using a five minute shower timer. - Sandy, Dallas

I switched to all native grass and plants in my yard, which take a lot less water (and effort) to maintain. I also only water early in the morning so the water doesn't evaporate before the plants can absorb it. - Theo, Round Rock

For the past 4 years, we have been removing trash and marine debris from local beaches. - Cindy, Corpus Christi

About 4 years ago I was trying to find a good lawn mower for my yard. After a lot of searching and buying different mowers I found my favorite. It is an electric mower; it only uses $7 of electricity per year. - Matt, Mesquite

I do not use a clothes dryer. An outside clothes line or inside drying rack works well. Why heat up the house with a clothes dryer? Clothes smell wonderful and last longer as well. - George, Alpine