Green Ideas Thrive in Tough Times

Is there a bright side to the recession? Green priorities are remaining strong, while old ideas like victory gardens and thriftiness are making a comeback. A recent post on the Green Skeptic encourages readers to use the economic crisis as a reason to get creative. Holland Cotter at the New York Times hopes the recession-hit art world will respond with fresh ideas and limit-pushing new work. In short, many green types are responding to crisis with more ingenuity and drive than ever.

Why We're Hopeful: From smart DIY projects like this hat made from recycled plastic bags to clever new products like chairs made from recycled newspapers and clothing made from recycled pop bottles, the green lifestyle is spreading in new and creative ways. Eco-artists are sending powerful messages about climate change and sustainability: Two of our recent favorites are Hongtao Zhou's icy "climate furniture" and  Yuken Teruya's recycled toilet paper roll sculptures.

What You Can Do: Join the green craft revolution and save money by sewing or mending your own clothes, growing and canning your own food, and reusing "trash" to make what you need. Web sites such as DIY Life, How Can I Recycle This?, Make, Craft, and Instructables offer ideas, tips, and tutorials for making and mending. Got some extra cash? Don't forget to support your local green businesses.

--Della Watson

Share your tips: What are your money-saving ideas for reusing and recycling?