Shred Your Paper

Paper shreds can be used for other things instead of just throwing them away.

I recommend: Using a paper shredder, use them to fill packages you send in the mail. It doesn’t cost anything, it can be recycled and it’s an environmentally safer product than Styrofoam.

Reuse & Recycle

Reuse & Recycle items if you can. Many items can be reused or recycled before you throw them away.

I recommend: Saving cash by reusing. Boxes can cost a few bucks each. Avoid buying new ones by reusing the ones sent to you.  If you don’t have old boxes to reuse, insist on mailing boxes that use 10% to 30% recycled paper.  Recycled plastic bubble wrap can be used to cushion the contents of your package. 
Reuse plastic shopping bags or shredded newspaper and pack it around breakables.  Try gummed paper tape made from recycled Kraft paper. 

Cornstarch Packing Peanuts

They are made from corn starch and dissolve in water leaving no toxic waste. Organic fill is static free, economical, fast and easy to use. Place them outside and they will either disappear when the birds take them to make their nests or they will melt in the next rainstorm.

I recommend: Use cornstarch packing peanuts.

Holiday Packing

Dry pine cones and air-popped popcorn. They're virtually free, festive and can be fed to the birds or put in the back yard after use.

I recommend: Use dry pine cones and air-popped popcorn for your holiday packing materials.