Going Green to Save Green
Introduction
While financial planning and environmentalism may not appear to have much in common, both focus on making the most of limited resources by reducing excess consumption, efficiently utilizing available assets, and recycling waste. These guidelines are not only good for the planet, they are also good for your wallet. Check out these 6 ideas to help you save green by going green:
1. Eliminate Food Waste
Food waste has a huge impact on the environment and on your budget. To reduce waste, plan and prep meals ahead of time and buy only what you need for that week, and bring your reusable produce bags.
If you have leftovers, store them in Beeswrap and bring them for lunch the next day. Compost any remaining leftovers and scraps.
The Mealime application (iOS and Google Play Store) is a great companion. The app creates a shopping list, making it super easy to shop. Just try to plan around what’s currently in season.
2. Combine Trips
Plan your errands for the upcoming week and try to use the most efficient route possible. Not only will you save gas, you will save money and time! Extra points if you walk or ride your bike.
3. Reduce Your Coffee Consumption
Or at least bring your reusable cup. Your once-in-a-while Starbucks habit is not going to break your budget, but making coffee at home will save money and reduce your footprint, especially if you use a reusable filter instead of disposables or k-cups. If you must drink coffee out, bring your reusable travel mug. Many coffee houses offer discounts.
4. Shop at Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are a great place to find high-quality clothing and furniture at rock-bottom prices. You’re keeping money in your wallet and goods out of the landfill. Just use common sense and clean your purchases before wearing or using them.
5. Resole Your Shoes and Repair Your Handbags
Cobbler Concierge is a phenomenal service that offers shoe and handbag repair and cleaning at affordable prices. Their work is highly-rated and their service is centered on convenience. You deliver your item to them via mail (they’ll send you a box) and they mail it back so you don’t have to add another item to your to-do list.
I had them resole and refinish a pair of boots I bought at a thrift store (see #4) and the total was half the amount it would have cost me to buy the same boots brand new.
6. Refinish Your Furniture Instead of Buying New
Like the prior suggestion, refinishing the items you already have is a win-win. Not only are you saving a ton of money, but you can feel good knowing you’re doing your part to save the environment. If you must purchase something new, make try to find a unique piece at a thrift store or flea market.
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