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Unshopping

One of the most important green purchasing strategies actually costs you nothing--and may help save you money, and save natural resources, in the long run. We call it unshopping.

Before buying anything, ask yourself:

• Do I really need and want this? Can I get by without it?
• Is it made from renewable or nonrenewable resources?
• Is it made of recycled materials and is it recyclable?
• How long will it last and how will I dispose of it?
• Can it be maintained and repaired?
• Could I borrow it, rent it, or buy it secondhand?
• Is it overpackaged?
• Is it worth the time I worked to pay for it and its cost to the environment?