by Amanda S
Most people are in penny pinching mode these days, and with good reason. Until our economy is fully restored to a thriving state, it is wise to do everything in your power to trim down expenses and put a little bit of money into savings each month for emergencies or layoffs.
One of the most effective means of saving a few bucks also happens to do a world of good for the environment (pun intended). Try out a few of the following cost-effective and super green tips to help you reduce, reuse and recycle. Watch your savings increase, while your ecological footprint deceases dramatically.
#1 – Become Water Savvy
Slash your water bill and do your part to stave off drought:
Reduce Water Use
– Install low-flow shower and faucet heads. Take short showers and shave with a bit of warm water stopped up in your tub.
Recycle Greywater
– Greywater is all not-toilet water that goes down the drain. Gather it into buckets and recycle it to water your plants and lawn. This can cut your water bill in half during hot seasons of the year. You must use greywater outdoors within 24 hours of collecting it, or it will turn toxic/septic.
Planting Succulents
– Succulents are hipster-chic these days, so go ahead and change your landscape from water suckers to hardy cacti and other succulents that thrive without much hydration.
#2 – Mitigate Media Spending
Many people shell out cash for media each month, which wastes funds and creates more consumer waste.
Save your scrillo and be good to mother nature:
Frequent the Library
– There is no good reason to buy or rent movies, books and CDs when you can borrow it all for free at the library. Don’t see the media selection you want? Simply go to the librarian’s desk, and your selection can be sought out – and delivered – from another branch in your region.
Sell your Used Media
– Many people toss broken or unwanted cell phones, computers and other electronic items into the trash. Silly mortals. Each of these items can be sold to electronics dealers for recyclable parts. A quick Google search will show you how to get some extra cash for your tired techie gear.
Get Internet Freebies
– Craigslist and Freecycle are just two of the social networking sites that offer free or reduced prices items via your neighbors. Get used media and electronics and save big, while minimizing consumer waste.
Small eco-friendly changes to your everyday life can help you to save a great deal of money. It can also help you sleep better at night, knowing that you are doing right by mother nature.