Photo: Courtesy of Waikiki Worm Co.

Compost your food waste.

Composting your food waste, instead of sending it to the landfill, is a great green option for small-space dwellers. Vermicomposting, or composting with worms, actually transforms your garbage into something you can use—nutrient-rich soil for your houseplants or landscaping needs. Worm bins take up very little room and are simple to use. The Beginner's Pack (above), $68, from the Waikiki Worm Co. is a great way to get started. 

Rent and borrow.

Living with less stuff will reduce your overall footprint and give you room to breathe. Why take up space in the garage with a huge tool kit you rarely use? Keep the essential tools and then rent or borrow other bulky specialty equipment from a friend when needed.

Say “No” to Junk Mail.

Junk mail can clutter up a small space in a hurry—plus it’s just plain wasteful. Save trees and space around the house by registering your name on a “do-not-mail” list at dmachoice.org. Or sign up for a service that will fight the junk for you, such as 41pounds.org.

Purify the Air.

Don’t let your space get stuffy. A few houseplants purify the air naturally and more effectively than those noisy, energy-sucking electric air purifiers. One plant for about every 10 square yards will do the trick to improve indoor air quality. Small palms, ferns and ivy are some of the best.

Grow Your Own Herbs.

A small indoor herb garden provides fresh, flavorful accents to your favorite meals. Basil, rosemary and parsley are great herbs for beginning gardeners. Place your plants in a spot where they’ll get some sun and keep the soil moist to enjoy your locally grown herbs all year.

Photo: iStockPhoto.com