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Turn trash (the biodegradable kind) into treasure by concocting your own compost in the backyard or sending it to your local composting facility. Reusing kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic matter redirects solid waste from overextended landfills and incinerators: about 21 million tons were diverted for composting in 2006—about 8 percent of total US municipal solid waste.[1] It also yields some of the richest, lowest cost, and most earth-friendly (read chemical-free) fertilizer there is. Either way, you'll be encouraging the ultimate in recycling. Here are some tips to get you started:

Around the house

• Make your own compost
• Install a composting toilet
• Use natural fertilizers for your houseplants

Baby

• Choose alternative disposable diapers

In the yard

• Use a mulching mower
• Use organic soil amendments

Kitchen

• Recycle your coffee grounds
• Use biodegradable dishes and flatware

Pet

• Choose biodegradable kitty litter
• Compost your pet's waste