Be a Freecycler

    For me, the coolest of the online free resource sites is Freecycle (freecycle.org). The Freecycle Network initiation started in Tuscon in 2003, when Deron Beal sent out the first email to 30 or so friends and local nonprofits letting them know about the items he had to give away. Freecycle now has 4,738 groups worldwide and an amazing 6,690,000 members. Just think about how many wonderful free treasures have changed hands and the sheer tonnage saved from landfill. Bravo, Mr. Beal!

    Freecycle's mission is to save good stuff from the landfill, promote environmental sustainability, and imbue life with the spirit of generosity, creating stronger local communities in the process.

    The steps to join a Freecycle group are straightforward. If there isn't a group in your area yet, you can start one. Once you have joined your local group, you can begin to post messages for what you want and what you have to offer. Freecycle is administered by volunteers and has the advantage of not needing a physical location- Freecycle's easy-to-use listing website makes it nearly effortless to use. Some posts are for significant items such as computers, bicycles, television, stereos, and even cars. Offering your surplus and finding what you need for free are both gratifying experiences, and ultimately, they alleviate a lot of stress on our precious planet.