Clear the clutter in your space. Organization and simplicity increase our creativity, serenity, and efficiency. Clear out one corner at a time, taking care to minimize what goes into the landfill. Do not use the toilet or drains to dispose of harmful chemicals and medicines. Waste water treatment facilities cannot remove harmful materials; they eventually end up in natural waterways.

CLOSET Donate gently used clothing to Salvation Army (find a location by entering your zip code on this page) or Goodwill Industries (find a location). But deliver clothing with obvious wear and tear to be recycled.

MEDICINE CABINET Take unused medicines back to your pharmacy for safe disposal. Never flush or put medicines down the drain.

HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS Take discarded batteries, paint, solvents, aerosols, fertilizers, pesticides, and even some household cleaners to your regional hazardous waste facility (Google: “hazardous waste” and your city’s name).

PANTRY Donate non-perishable items to Second Harvest Food Bank. Food drives are prevalent during the holidays. You can donate during the off-season at many Safeway stores and churches.