If you listen to the national media, America's colors have changed from red, white and blue to green. Most people and companies are making a real effort to save money and protect the planet, but for others it's just a pitch line.

As for the real deal, Home Depot and Bentonville-based Walmart are leading the way with some legitimate eco-sensitive programs. The retail giant is making a huge difference through packaging innovations. For example, Sam's Club has started using square milk jugs. That allows the company to stack them on top of each other, meaning they fit more containers on a truck. Fewer truckloads saves gas and results in lower prices for consumers.