According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the amount of waste a person creates has nearly doubled in the past few decades, from 2.7 pounds to 4.4 pounds per day. Instead of throwing out your old stuff, reuse it!

A few simple ways to impact the environment (and even make or save some money during the process) include:

1. DONATE YOUR STUFF. Many schools, shelters and artist coalitions are looking for unused items and materials. Thinking local can make a visible difference and many charitable organizations like Goodwill or the Salvation Army will pick up reuseable items directly from your house. Tips for local giving can be found at http://www.oodle.com/donate/tips/. Don’t forget, charitable donations are tax deductible.

2. SELL IT ONLINE. Online classifieds are a great way to get rid of things you would normally throw away. Think about how much money might be lurking in the recesses of your house or apartment and breathe new life into them. It’s simple to post a listing on sites like Oodle or Craigslist.

3. RE-GIFT. Got gifts you didn’t like in 2007? Put them in the closet and you’ll always have a gift handy; or re-sell/trade them online… especially once that pesky return deadline has passed.

Here’s to a greener 2008!