Go Green, Save Money

What do you think when you hear about someone being “eco-friendly” or talking about “going green”? You may think that they’re wasting not only their time, but their hard-earned money as well, however you’d be surprised to know that being more environmentally friendly doesn’t break the bank. There are many small things you can do that will undoubtedly have a big impact on helping the environment flourish.

The next time you leave for work or school, consider walking if it’s within a reasonable distance from your home, biking, taking public transportation or even carpooling. By doing this you’re helping with the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption. In return you save gas, which saves you money!

Your diet also has an impact on the environment. A vegetarian or vegan lifestyle may not be for you, however cutting back on your meat intake is a start. According to FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations), the livestock industry is accountable for approximately 14.5% of GHG emissions. It is also responsible for the rapid depletion of natural resources such as water, and land. Agricultural land, which is deforested land, is used for grazing as well as for growing crops, which produces feed for domestic livestock. Livestock such as cattle, are large producers of Methane. Although methane isn’t emitted in high quantities like Carbon Dioxide, its impact on global warming is more severe. By reducing your meat consumption, you’re not only taking a stand against the livestock industry, but you’re also saving money.

Growing your own goods is another way you can save money AND contribute to the reduction of the ever-growing carbon footprint left behind by the refrigeration, and transportation of the fresh produce we see in our local grocery stores. It’s the little things that will have the biggest impact like bringing a reusable bag to the grocery store, recycling, not letting the tap run when you brush your teeth, composting, using a reusable water bottle, taking shorter showers, and turning the lights off when you’re not in the room just to name a few. It’s simple, you save money by saving the environment. It’s a win-win situation.