11 Tips to Save Money and Our Planet

It’s not necessary to volunteer your time to the ends of the earth to help save the planet. It’s okay to start with yourself in your very own home. It’s there that you’ll see people around you starting to follow your example. Here are some practical tips that will help us make the lives of our children and grandchildren a little bit better.

Bright Side has gathered 11 ways to cut costs and save the earth at the same time.

Don’t miss our inspiring bonus at the end of the article.

11. Stop drinking bottled water.

All of us know that we need to stay hydrated during the day, but instead of buying plastic bottled water, it’s time to get yourself a reusable one. This will not only put a few extra dollars in your pocket, but it also means less plastic polluting the earth.

10. Do your laundry less often.

Of course, we’re not encouraging you to wear dirty clothes, but by starting your washer fully loaded, you will reduce both energy and water usage. On a sunny day, you can even try using a line dry just like your grandma used to do it!

9. Use the dishwasher.

We’re sure that you are capable of washing a couple of plates yourself, but you’d be better off using the dishwasher. It’s a much greener option! There are energy-saving models now that can use around 10 liters of water per load.

8. Visit your local thrift store.

One easy way to help the environment is to avoid purchasing new items. We know it’s not easy, but there is a big chance that someone else doesn’t need the one thing you’re actually looking for. So, start visiting yard sales, thrift stores, and flea markets — you can find really amazing things that cost almost nothing.

7. No more paper towels!

Turn your old T-shirts and towels into rags for housekeeping. It saves money and trees and it reduces the amount of paper waste. There’s enough garbage in the Pacific ocean, so let’s try to produce less paper and trash.

6. Read online.

Almost all books, magazines, and other print media have digital versions nowadays. You can find many of them online for free or at a low price. By doing this, you’re saving trees, along with the fuel and power wasted on creating and recycling paper items.

5. Support local farmers.

A huge amount of energy is used to ship fresh fruits and vegetables from one part of the country to another, so maybe it’s time to visit your local farm! Most of the products there will not only be cheaper, but fresher as well! And it’s always good to support a small business.

4. Turn off your tech.

Your computer, TV, and other tech products use energy even while in sleep mode. So unplug your electronics and turn them off. For example, don’t forget to turn your computer off when you’re not using it.

3. Reduce your commute.

Exhaust fumes pollute the air, affect water and soil, harm human health and even cause global warming! Try to use public transportation, carpool, ride a bike, or walk. One more undeniable benefit of reducing your commute is that it helps improve the quality of the air on the planet.

2. Recycling is fun!

Have you heard that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure? It is time to make your trash your own treasure! Have a fresh look at your old things — maybe it’s time to give them a second chance. Let your creativity guide you!

1. Plant your own garden.

Create a garden even if it’s just on your window sill. In flower pots, plants such as radishes, spinach, cherry tomatoes, basil, and garlic can be grown. More plants mean more oxygen and more money in your wallet.

Which way are you going to choose? Would you be willing to make these minor adjustments to make the world a cleaner place? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!