Be Green to Save Green
- 1. Buy "green" lightbulbs. These fluorescent bulbs can be expensive in the stores, but one bulb averages $30 of savings over it's lifetime. Print a coupon here.
- 2. Buy rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries offer economic and environmental benefits. Regular batteries release harmful chemicals into the environment when thrown away.
- 3. Install a water filter on your faucet and buy a reusable plastic water bottle. Most bottled water is tap water anyway. Faucet water filters are very inexpensive and will save you from buying cartons of water every week. Sign up for $6 in coupons.
- 4. Unplug electronic devices like cellphone chargers, power tools, dvd players, and other gadgets when not in use. These devices stay "on" even when they are turned off. They can account for about 5% of your home's energy use.
- 5. Set your thermostat higher in the summer and lower in the winter. A few degrees won't be that noticeable to you, but will be noticeable on your gas bill.
- 6. Dry clothes outside in the summer or on a clothes rack in your laundry room. This will not only save energy costs, but will also keep your clothes longer.
- 7. Wash clothes in cold water when possible. Almost 85% of the energy used to wash clothes comes from the water heater.
- 8. Use a showerhead aerator. This small change can save as much as 50% of water used for showering.
- 9. Shop at farmer's markets and buy local produce. This produce is cheaper and much fresher than anything in the grocery store. For a list of farmer' markets near your area go to localharvest.org
- 10. Buy secondhand. Visit websites like craigslist, ebay and amazon to find used items like books, appliances and furniture.
- 11. Buy in bulk. Buying food in bulk saves the amount of packaging a company uses. Plus it can save you money.
- 12. Donate old electronic items like cellphones and chargers to cellphonesforsoldiers.com
- 13. Opt for electronic statements for bills/banking, then pay them online to save envelopes and stamps.
- 14. Make your own cleaning products from household items. Click here for 25 safe non-toxic cleaners.
- 15. Bike/walk/carpool to work, school or sporting events.
- 16. Buy reusable glass food containers instead of plastic disposable or plastic bags. Sign up at rubbermaid.com for free coupons.
- 17. Seal your home properly. Use spray foam, weather stripping or reflective foil insulation.
- 18. Pick one day to run errands rather than running out several times a week.
- 19. Start a compost to reduce garbage. Visit this website to find out how to start. www.howtocompost.org
- 20. Buy canvas, reusable grocery bags.
Check out www.smartshoppinggirl.com for more great tips on savings money
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