Give Up Paper Subscriptions (Go to the Library)

Photo: Ken Zirkel / istock

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Instead of buying small mountains of books, CDs, DVDs, newspapers and magazines that pile up – often unread – check more of them out of your local library, or relax inside the quiet halls and browse in the company of neighbors.

Paper is wasted in incredible amounts; it's one of the biggest materials by volume in landfills. Industrial papermaking has an enormous footprint, from deforestation during harvesting, to the heavy use of water, toxic chemicals and energy during processing... and the burning of fossil fuels during shipping. Paper fibers can only be recycled a few times before they break down, and the process requires energy (albeit much less than paper made from virgin fibers). CDs and other media are made of nonrenewable petroleum products and are very difficult to recycle.

The fact is, many of us are filling our homes with books and other materials that we never, or rarely, use. We would be well advised to save some money, and cut down on waste, by buying only the materials we will really use frequently and patronizing libraries for more of the rest.

Libraries can also be great sources of social interaction and learning. They are typically close to home, encouraging walking, biking or use of public transit. While you're there picking up a book, you may learn about classes, community events or other services. An increasing number of libraries are also moving beyond books to offer for check-out electronic media, such as e-books, as well as computer equipment and even power tools.

Related: 17 More Ways to Reduce Clutter at Home

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