9 Small Steps to Save the Environment and Your Money

Many people have habits in their everyday lives that are not only bad for their wallet, but also for the environment. Do you keep the water running while you brush your teeth? Do you keep lights on, even when you are not in the room? These are some examples of bad habits that cost you money on your utility bills and are a waste of resources for the environment. Even though these costs seem small, they tend to add up to a larger amount at the end of the month when our bills are due. Here are 9 small steps to save the environment and your money!

Automatic Thermostat

Trying to keep the temperature in your home comfortable can be difficult. It is always either too hot or too cold. A programmable thermostat, however, can save you money by automatically adjusting the temperature on its own, based on your daily living patterns. This also saves the environment from excess carbon dioxide use as well.

Rewear

Items such as jackets and jeans don't need to be washed after every use. By re-wearing these items a few times, you will save water and money on your electric bill.

De-lint Your Dryer

Always remember to take the lint out of the dryer after each use. This saves energy because the dryer must work harder with a dirty filter. You’ll also save a few bucks on your electric bill.

Desktop vs. Laptop

Laptops use much less energy than desktops do. If you have both, try using your laptop more often and unplug your desktop. This will save the amount of energy used, which helps both your wallet and the planet.

Limit Your Paper Usage

If you are the type that writes down a lot of notes, you may be wasting tons of paper. Try limiting your paper products by utilizing the notes app on your phone or tablet. This saves the trees and prevents you from purchasing as many paper overall as well.

Eco-friendly Vehicle

With the growth of technology, eco-friendly vehicles have been a big hit this year. These vehicles help the planet by reducing the amount of waste that the car produces. They also help to lower the amount of money you spend on gas by giving you more gas per mile.

Side note: If you are in the process of looking to purchase a new car, but do not have the cash, you can use your old car to take out a car title loan. This will allow you to use your old vehicle as collateral to put money down on a new, more eco-friendly, vehicle.

Shut Off the Water

Try not to keep the water running unless you are using it right then and there. This will save you tons of money on your water bill at the end of the month. You'll also be helping the environment by not wasting as much water.

Walk

If you are going somewhere that is close by, walk! This will prevent the amount of carbon dioxide put into the environment, save you money on gas, and also give you some healthy exercise!

 

 

Use refillable bottles

Plastic is one of the worst things for the environment. By using a refillable water bottle, you don't have to purchase a case of water. This saves the planet in a huge way by eliminating plastic bottle use.

Although many of these things seem small, when used together, they make big changes for both the environment and your wallet.

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.