Don't Be An April Fool: Five Ways to be 'Green' Right Now

Throughout the week, we have interspersed our regularly-scheduled Morristown Patch programming with a bit of "green"–and, no, we're not referring to our new background.

In honor of Earth Day, on April 22, we here at Morristown Patch will continue to spread a little green cheer, offering tips, profiles and more about people and ways everyone can help out the planet. A little is better than nothing, and a lot of littles can make a big difference.

Today, we offer up five ways you can be "green" right now, and resources in town that can help get you there.

1. You Need to Know About the Library: Magazines, newspapers, basically most forms of print media have taken a hit in recent years because of the Internet and the vast network it offers. But, there still is something about the tactile pleasure of holding a book or magazine or newspaper in your hands. For some, it's still the go-to source for information. But, instead of subscribing to something that will end up in the trash or recycling bin in a couple days or weeks, take advantage of the vast network offers. All of those magazines and newspapers (and books, and more books) are right there, waiting for your hands and eyes to soak in the information. And, it's free.
2. You Need to Know About Fair Trade, Organic Coffee: In an effort to live in a more harmonious balance with the planet, the first salvo should always be to find ways to consume less. But, hey, as journalists, we need coffee to survive. And, since we're not in a climate hospitable to growing our own beans, another way to help is to buy the best beans we can. , on South Street, has based its business model on organic and fair trade, meaning the coffee they sell and brew has not been treated with pesticides, and those that grow the beans that eventually end up there have been paid a fair, living wage. Taking it one step further: Buy the beans there instead of just getting a cup every time you pop in. Brew it at home. You'll save money, and be able to control how strong or mild you like your Joe in the process.
3. You Need to Know About Freecycle: Instead of recycling, try "freecycling," as in the vast network of sites in many communities throughout the world, including Morris County. Started in May 2004, the Morris County Freecycle group covers the entire county, including Morristown. What is it? It's basically what it sounds like: a forum where people have stuff they don't want or need, but don't want to throw it out. As the name implies, items are free. You just need to be a member of the group, keep an eye out for items, and then contact the person who is giving it away. You also can place your own items on Freecycle for someone else to claim. It's free to use, and a great way to clear out your closets.
4. You Need to Know About Craigslist: Yesterday, . While these aren't free, often you can find a great deal on something being sold locally, instead of buying something from the other side of the country. As yesterday's column showed, there is a lot of interesting items right here in Morristown, plus some more common, everyday items someone out there is trying to unload.
5. You Need to Know About Local Activities: We benefit from being a tightly-packed community filled to the brim with events (many of them free) we can walk to (even on cold, somewhat snowy days like this). A cursory glance on our (also free) calendar shows that seniors can participate in free "flex and stretch" classes at the Senior Center at 10 a.m., Brian Leopold is playing at Hennessey's at 10 p.m., "Better Than Eddy" is playing at 10 p.m. at The Famished Frog. Boom! Three free things within walking distance.

So, go forth and be "green," however small or great your green is.