Many consumers believe that going green requires big budgets. While it is true that organic foods and energy efficient appliances are more costly than standard ones, their benefits and savings potential outweigh a new purchase expense. In fact, making a few minor adjustments to your lifestyle will save you big bucks. Here are seven ways you can go green on a budget.
- Use Natural Cleaners
Many household cleaners contain harmful contaminants and chemicals that leave a surface residue. One of the cheapest ways to go green is by simply using natural cleaning solutions which you most likely already have in your home. Environment-friendly products that make excellent cleaning solutions include baking soda, white vinegar, peroxide, lemons, and citrus. Citrus like lemons and limes are anti-bacterial as well.
- All-Purpose Cleaning Solution
- 10 Ounces Of Water
- ½ Cup Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Baking Soda
- 2 Tbsp lemon
- Start A Small Garden
One of the most fulfilling ways to go green is to grow your own fruits and vegetables. While it will take you some time to get the soil ready, plant the seeds, and tend the plants, the potential to save a lot of money on fruits and vegetables is significant.
- Buy Local Organic Foods
Organic produce is stereotyped as being expensive, but when you buy from local farms and supermarkets, prices are much closer to the non-organic produce. You also get fresher organic meats, dairy, and produce when locally grown as it has a shorter field-to-fork processing time. Visiting a farmer’s market will allow you to buy in one place.
- Reduce Your Fuel Usage
Most consumers are not able to buy hybrid cars, but there are ways you can reduce your fuel usage. The lighter the weight in your car, the less fuel it will use. Unload heavy objects like tools or travel bags. Also, make sure your tires are properly inflated as it will reduce your fuel usage by 3%. It will also help to walk short distances, use public transportation, or ride your bike when you have the opportunity to do so.
- Reduce Your Household Utility Usage
Your appliances use energy when in a standby mode, so take the time to unplug them when not in use. You also have access to smart strips that put your appliances in a non-energy usage mode which makes them easily accessible when needed. Using a smart strip will save you about $200 annually in electricity.
- Buy A Smart Thermostat
Installing a smart thermostat will save you ten to fifteen percent on your heating and cooling bills. Controlling your thermostat when on the go and pairing it with smart technology appliances with a good energy efficiency rating will bring additional savings.
- Recycle
Recycling not only saves you money, but it allows you to make income as well. Half of the products we use are recyclable, yet many salvageable products end up in landfills. In fact, Americans throw away nearly three million tons of aluminum annually, yet it has a value worth investing. Recycle for green energy and add money to your budget as well.
If you want information on recycling in the Greater Boston and North Shore areas, give us a call at (781) 941-2422. You can also visit us on Facebook to learn about environmental conservation.