47 Things You Can Do for the Environment (Zest Books, 128 pages, $10.99)

by Lexi Petronis with Jill Buck

July 2012— Paging through 47 Things You Can Do for the Environment you’ll discover a number of ways you can conserve resources and live a greener existence.

Divided into eight sections, this book suggests lifestyle changes that will foster conservation. There are also suggestions on things you can do while out in the community shopping, traveling, having fun with friends or enjoying recreational activities.

An estimated two billion disposable razors are sent to landfills every year; you might wish to switch to either an electric razor or use an old-fashioned one with refillable blades. And rather than throw the blades away when they are dull, get a device to re-sharpen them.

You might be surprised to learn that a front-loading washing machine uses up to 50 percent less water than a top-loader. So if you go to a laundromat, find one with front-loaders — or next time you buy a machine, look for a front-loader.

In 2009 Americans bought 8.45 billion gallons of bottled water. Although many of the bottles were recycled, far too many did not make it into the recycling bin. One way of cutting down on those empties going into the landfill — and also saving money — is to purchase a reusable container or thermos that you can fill with water every day at home. Take it with you in the car when you travel, or when you go to work or school.

These are just some of the suggestions you’ll find in this handy little book that will help you live a greener lifestyle. Although this book is intended for teenagers, there are ideas here that anyone can benefit from.