While not new in itself, going green is the new little black dress. Everybody from the A-list celebs to your next door neighbor wants in and saving our planet has become big business. However, one trip to the store and its obvious-going eco isn’t at all eco-nomical! So, how can you reduce your carbon footprint when adding solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and organic furniture isn’t even near the budget?
Green in the Home:
For starters, you can reduce the amount of paper and plastic products you use. Paper towels, plates, cups, and plastic utensils, while convenient, can be easily replaced with cloth, ceramic, glass, and stainless steel. Consider reading your newspaper and doing your banking, bill paying, etc. online. Also, try taking your own cloth bags shopping with you instead of using those the store provides. These materials are reusable and save your wallet, along with reducing your contribution to the landfill.
A small investment in a water filter and a to-go cup can save thousands of plastic bottles from hitting the ‘fill’ each year. The switch to a reusable hemp coffee filter and organic coffee to put into your to-go cup has the added advantage of reducing the amount of trees that are cut down in the rainforest, since organic coffee is grown in the shade.
Do the math: nixing the paper and plastic products and buying the replacements, it’s safe to say that you’ve at least broke even. Considering the reusability of your new items, it will save you money in the long run…and we’re just getting started!
If the cost of buying organic makes you cringe, consider growing your own. This can be done indoors, outside, or in a community garden. In addition to providing healthier food for your family, you could make some money by selling extras from your home or at a farmer’s market. You could even donate them to a local shelter as a way to give back to your community.
Recycle!
All you’ll need are some bins to separate paper, plastic, and metal from your trash. You may also need to set up a pick-up for it, if you’re not taking it in yourself. What can be done with what’s left? If it’s biodegradable, such as food waste, you can set up a compost bin outside, in your garage, or shed. Look into selling the by-product as an organic fertilizer. Many technology companies have programs that let you recycle your old technology (cell phones, computers, etc.) and some will offer a buyback price. This is a safer method of disposal than simply throwing them away and, in some cases; they can be refurbished and used again.
Worried about the amount of energy your household uses? Simply turning everything off may not be enough. If left plugged in, they still use small amounts of energy, which can quickly add up. The easiest solution is to plug everything into a power strip and switch that off when you’re not using those items.
You can improve your home’s air quality by replacing your vinyl shower curtain with a cloth one. Vinyl releases fumes, especially in a hot shower, that aren’t the best for your system. Think about adding some plants-they naturally reduce air pollutants indoors. A switch to naturally made products, such as cleaning, pest control and air fresheners, can go a long way toward this improvement as well. You can buy these in a store or make your own on the cheap.
Re-decorating on a green budget is possible with thrift and creativity. Instead of buying brand new furniture, buy used and dress it up to fit your style. This not only saves you money, but will give your home a unique flair. Using VOC paints is a healthier alternative to regular paint, which can release harmful fumes. It does cost more, but considering the health risk to your family, its well worth it. What you save on the furniture can more than make up for the extra spent here. Your old clothing, curtains, etc. can be given a new life as a quilt or throw pillows and save you money on accessories. Get crafty with it…your home, and the planet, will thank you for it.
Green in the Community:
There are plenty of ways to spread the love to your community. One way to do this is by becoming an activist. Send emails to your political representatives and encourage them to vote green (energy, wildlife, etc.) or convince your local council to create a community recycling program, if one doesn’t exist. Support eco-friendly commerce in all its forms.
Make a point to buy local. Not only is it beneficial to local merchants and farmers, but it also helps stimulate the local economy. If this isn’t cool enough, think about it this way…you know right away exactly what you’re getting and where it’s coming from. Don’t forget to bring your cloth bags!
You can save in fuel costs and reduce the amount of emissions in the air by setting up a carpool with your co-workers. Simply set the routes and how much each person should chip in on gas. Another way to save on gas is to work from home, if possible. Many companies offer telecommute positions for employees who have proven themselves in their field. At the least, it’s worth looking into.
You see, there are many steps that can be taken to contribute to, and help save, our planet without going broke doing it. The majority of those listed here actually cost less than you’d spend otherwise. Some only require an investment of your time. Think about it…the money you save going green can go toward that generator you’ve had your eye on.
