Wouldn’t it be great if you could have a positive impact on the world around you and save some money at the same time? Well, guess what; you can. You can live a much greener life by adopting a couple of green living ideas and adding them to your shopping habits. You will actually find that you are trimming costs from your monthly expenses by following these 5 green ideas.
Borrow items
One of the most overlooked ways to go green is to just start by consuming less. Consuming less means less manufacturing, production, and creation of environmentally unfriendly items. Instead of buying items that you may only need for one time, you should consider borrowing items from a friend, family member, or a neighbor. Sharing power tools and other electronic devices will cut down on the production of these difficult to dispose of items.
Buy in bulk
With the rise of Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale, it has gotten easier than ever to buy items in bulk. Buying in bulk seems like it would cost more and would be more harmful to the environment but the truth is that it’s not. Buying in bulk reduces the amount of packaging that is needed for a product. Buying 1000 rolls of toilet paper in a pack is a whole lot more environmentally friendly than buying 250 packages of those small four packs. It’s also a whole lot cheaper. Buying in bulk lowers the cost per unit of each item substantially.
Buy used items
Secondhand products are often just as effective and as attractive as brand new items. Buying automobiles, electronics, furniture, and home appliances second hand is easier than ever with the rise of online auction sites. You no longer have to go to garage sales and flea markets to pick up these items. Just visit sites like Ebay, Amazon, and Craigslist. You are giving a home to a perfectly good item that may have been unjustly disposed of. You are also saving money by not having to go buy a brand new product.
Buy organic
Organic items are a lot healthier for you and for the environment. They are free of chemicals, pesticides, and hormones. Buying organic is an investment in your health and the environment. One of the big myths about eating organic is that it is a whole lot more expensive. This is simply not true. Organic items can be purchased at a reasonable price if you shop around. You can save a lot of money buying organic items at food co-ops and farmers markets.
Buy energy efficient products.
It’s always a good idea to opt for energy efficient products whenever possible. Air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers, and other home appliances can be real money savers for a homeowner. Low flow showerheads and compact fluorescent light bulbs reduce both energy and water consumption throughout your home. These items can reduce your home’s reliance on gas, electricity, and water while lowering your utility bills.
You see it’s really not that hard to go green. It’s actually quite simple and the best thing is you get to save money in the process. Living sustainable is not only key to the protecting Mother Nature but it also key to your future financial health.
So, what have you done around your home to go green?