One of the myths of being eco-friendly is that it takes a lot of money. While some large-scale changes may require a chunk of change, such as buying a tankless water heater or adding solar panels to your roof, the majority of going green choices don't have to cost a fortune. Here are 7 ways to go green on the cheap.
Be a Friend to Farmers
The best prices on organic produce are usually close to home at your local farmers' market. Organic is best for your body and the planet. By shopping more directly with the organic producers you can not only save money but also put more cash in the farmers' pockets and support local food production. Find out more about living and eating organically.
Clean for Under a Buck
Did you know that you can clean most of your house with a non-toxic cleaner that usually costs less than a dollar? That magic bullet is baking soda. A little water and baking soda makes a terrific cleaning paste for tubs, sinks, stoves, and other surfaces. Its whitening effect is great for cleaning grout. Add a handful to your whites in the wash for brighter clothes. Baking soda is also a great deodorizer, and it won't irritate your lungs.
Fertilize with Garbage
One of the great benefits of eating is that there's waste. Seriously. Put your food scraps to work in an at-home compost and voila! You'll have a free supply of soil amendment and mulch from the compost that can also be used as fertilizer for your lawn and garden. Compost is organic and non-toxic, extremely healthy for plants and the soil, and gives back to the planet with minimal effort from you.
Super Sun Savings
Open those blinds and curtains and turn off the lights. Sunlight is free ... and completely renewable. You'll save on electricity. And sunshine is better for your body. The sun's rays are just the right brightness and spectrum to give you more energy, better regulate your sleep patterns, and improve your mood. Sun equals smiles.
Well-Contained Lunches
Opt for reusable containers for lunches whenever possible. You have a one-time investment on the containers that can save you a boatload – throwaway baggies and individually packaged lunch items (like juice boxes and applesauce cups) are much more expensive than if you filled up reusable containers at home with juice, fruit, and a sandwich. And that means less goes to the landfill too.
Old News is Good News
Have a package to send? Avoid the expense and waste of bubble wrap. Instead, reach for yesterday's newspaper as packing material. It might seem old fashioned, but what was good for grandma is still good for you.
Save Money and Miles
Put on your thinking cap next time you plan errands and schedule them together on a miles-saving route. By strategically combining errands and avoiding unplanned trips to the store, you'll save gas and make your wallet a little fatter. Plus, you'll be spewing less pollution into the air from your car.
Terra Wellington is the author of The Mom's Guide to Growing Your Family Green: Saving the Earth Begins at Home. She figures that anytime she can save a few cents while being green her wallet gets a little fatter and that brings her one step closer to spending money on what really counts – fun-filled family outings.
Member Comments On...
7 Cheap Ways to Go Green
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I've noticed a couple of websites offering food coupons from stores that support going green. This is something I think everyone should be looking into.
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Really good suggestions! In fact, by the way, you can actually go solar without going broke by using a solar rent, lease or power purchase agreement (PPA) strategy. The PPA strategy can be especially effective, under the right conditions, since the system is installed ---> free of charge <---. We analyze the pros and cons of various home solar approaches on our website page at: http://alternative-energy-home.cosmic-corridor.com/rent-lease-or-ppa-solar.php.
Another small scale green change is using rechargeable batteries wherever possible. It saves money too (I use a favorite website as a source for this too, happy to share though, just ask).
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These are great! Using cloth napkins is also an easy change to make. Once you begin using them it will feel strange to use a paper napkin or paper towel in your home. My blog has a few more: http://www.fabricwrapper.com/blog/fabricwrappermusings.html
Simple changes do add up!
