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Health & Fitness

Going Green: How to Help Save the Earth, on a Budget

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Even before “going green” was a trendy thing to do, environmentally conscious people were spreading the word about being kind to our planet, especially on Earth Day. Today’s Earth Day celebrations include an entire green movement, those who live a lifestyle with a smaller carbon footprint than most. Joining in on the Earth Day celebration can end up saving money in a number of ways. Whether your commitment is small or large, you can make a positive impact while living a frugal lifestyle.

Water, Water Everywhere

Does your tap water taste like iron filings or fish fins have been stewing in it? No wonder you don’t want to drink it. But the most common solution, buying bottled water, can be both expensive and bad for the environment. All those plastic bottles end up in a landfill somewhere, and the cost of that water adds up fast. A better alternative is to get a filter pitcher to remove impurities from your tap water yourself. You’ll have great tasting water for a fraction of the cost, and you can even find coupons for the pitchers and filters.

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Grow Your Own

One of the best-tasting things on earth is a salad made with fresh-picked vegetables. One of the best ways to celebrate Earth Day is to start a garden of some type. Whether you put in a large vegetable plot or plant a couple of containers with tomato plants, you’ll save fossil fuel by growing your vegetables instead of buying them in a grocery store. While you’re having fun learning to grow tasty food, you’ll also save big at the grocery store. Even if you have coupons, the cost of a packet of seeds is much cheaper than the price of fresh produce.


Find Hidden Electricity Thieves

Are you living with a bunch of vampires? Most of today’s electrical appliances have a standby setting, allowing them to be on and working instantly, as soon as the switch is pressed. While this is convenient, it also costs you electricity as long as it’s plugged in. Your television, coffee maker and cell phone charger are all drawing power 24 hours a day, whether you’re using them or not. You can give yourself electrical discounts and reduce your bill by unplugging all of these energy vampires.

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The Thermostat

You’re too cold. He’s too hot. Nobody’s happy. It might be a long-running argument in some families, but the temperature of the thermostat can definitely effect saving money and using power. Turning the temperature up or down just two degrees can result in significant savings. Make your rooms just a little warmer in the summer and a little cooler in the winter. If you dress to match the season, you may not even notice the difference.


Alternate Transportation

In the habit of driving to the corner store to pick up a loaf of bread? This is costing you on so many levels. On this Earth Day, stop using so many fossil fuels and get out your bicycle for trips that are only a mile or two. If you don’t have a bike, walk instead. Not only will you be doing good for the environment, you’ll be saving money you might otherwise spend on health clubs and exercise machines.


Vacation Locally

What’s the hottest vacation trend this year? Staycations! By skipping a flight, you’ll save hundreds of dollars, as well as a large amount of fossil fuel. Get to know your local area, your city,and even your state. Each one has something to offer for tourists. Check online discount sites for travel coupons designed for people visiting your area. You may be surprised at the sights you can visit close to home, and the lack of stress at the airport is an added vacation bonus.


Learn to Cook

Aren’t you tired of expensive fast food, wasting your money and adding to your waistline? Start getting smart by cooking your own meals. If you don’t know how, take a simple cooking class or check out instructions online. Cooking at home will give you healthier food, reduce your carbon footprint by reducing the amount of ingredients that have to be shipped into your area and will save you a significant amount of money. Pack your own lunch for work, invest in a slow cooker and learn how to make tasty meals in a half hour or less. You won’t miss the rush through the drive thru.

Groups of people have the power to make big changes, and halting climate change and improving the environment is a change worth everyone’s effort. Add your little part to the cause and you’ll know you’re doing good while saving money in the process.

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