How to be Green Without Spending a Lot of Green

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Don’t get me wrong, the typical “go green” ideas are great to strive toward. But, let’s face reality. Not many of us have the money, or credit for that matter, to install solar panels, buy a hybrid car, install eco friendly appliances and windows, etc… right now. So, what can we do right here to see green in our lives without going broke?

Windows And Doors

Tie a ribbon at the top of each of your windows and doors (near the seal.) On a windy day, notice if the ribbons moves around. If it does, then you are letting all the unwanted air in, and all the wanted air out. This can add up to hundreds of dollars a year in electric expenses. Very few of us have the on hand cash to replace windows and doors. In the meantime, you can add a relatively inexpensive weather stripping.

Washer And Dryer

Don’t have an energy star washer and dryer? You can still use less water and electricity. Always wash and dry full loads. But, don’t overload a dryer. Lack of air circulation will actually cause clothes to take longer to dry. Use cold water whenever possible. If you do use hot water, then turn your water heater down to 120°F. Wait until you have multiple loads to wash and dry so that you can take advantage of the remaining heat in the dryer. Keep dryer exhaust and filter clean for quicker drying. 

Appliances

Unplug television, computer, lamps, kitchen equipment, and other appliances when they are not in use. A power strip can add convenience. Just plug all nearby appliances into it, and then you just have to unplug the one plug.

Food 

Organic farmers do not utilize the harmful pesticides, fertilizers, hormones, and other chemicals that conventional farmers use. They also implement water conservation into their practices. If you have an organic farm nearby, you might can buy direct. You will cut the third party cost out, and save the energy required to transport the food to the third party.

Vehicle

Hybrids are great, but they are often not affordable or practical for large and special needs families. In the meantime, you can walk short distance trips. If your car idles for over 20 seconds, turn the ignition off. Forgo the morning warm up. It might be a little cold or hot, but will you melt or turn into an ice cube?

Curb Your Paper Waste

People and machines are constantly handing us paper that we really don’t need. Just say no to the ATM receipts. If you need a balance, pick up the phone. Think about all the information you are handed daily! Ask yourself if you can receive and give the same information via the computer. For example, if you are going to get an insurance quote, ask them to email you the information instead of printing it out. Most companies will be happy to oblige. If you are sending party or event invitations, then do it electronically. I am not really a fan of online billing, because of the information hackers. However, if you don’t have that concern, then by all means sign up for it.

Curb Your Plastic Waste

Instead of packaging lunches in foil and plastic, try using a cloth napkin. Containers, like sour cream, cottage cheese, pasta sauce, etc.., also make reusable packaging materials. Try bringing your own cloth bags with you to the grocery store.

Times are tough, but we can all still do our little part to be kind to the earth. Please add your suggestions, ideas, and comments.

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