Earth Day is Friday, April 22 – we’re featuring a green tip of the day from April 1-22.

Tip #12: REDUCE the amount of stuff you consume, and the amount of stuff you throw away. We’re talking about clothes and everyday items that can quickly add up to a pile of junk. If the item’s in good order, but you’ve outgrown its use, be sure to pass along, donate or sell it so it doesn’t wind up in a landfill.

• When the item’s kaput and no longer of use to anyone, dispose of it responsibly by recycling in the best way possible.
• Rentalic is all about renting stuff – to and from – your neighbors.
• freecycle.org – We’ve used this service, and it works great. Joining is free and easy. Post items that you’re either looking for or want to pass along to others. No fees and everything’s free.
• swap.com. Trade books, cd’s, movies, video games and more. They have a free iPhone app, too – make your own HAVE and WANT lists.
• GrowNYC Textile & Clothing Recycling – the go-to resource for recycling clothes in NYC.
• Learn how to recycle anything – earth911.org
• Trade books via bookmooch.com

If you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint and energy bill by upgrading your appliances to Energy-Star rating, or invest in a Chevy Volt, Prius or other green ride – we’re with you. Unless the item you’re replacing is totally shot, please remember to keep it from the waste stream as long as possible by passing along to someone who can use it.

Related: previously on altCon –

• swap.com and freecycle – how they work.
• How To Recycle Clothes
• Swap O Rama and More Ways to Recycle Clothes