save money, save the world

GUEST BLOGGER: EMMA PARKHURST

​Oftentimes, we associate living eco-friendly with spending big bucks. Things like solar panels, electric cars, or living “off the grid” may not financially be an option for many of us. Luckily there are plenty of budget friendly alternatives to be kind to the earth that are also kind to your wallet. Even better – some green living tips may even savemoney in the long run! If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Earth Day this year, consider making these eco-friendly changes to your lifestyle while saving money for yourself:

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• Reusable Water Bottles: bottled water may not be expensive up front, but the cycle of buying and throwing away adds up. Invest in a reusable water bottle to cut down on cost andplastic waste. If you don’t like the taste of your city’s water, consider a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter, a filter for your faucet, or a purifier pitcher to keep in your refrigerator.
• Washable Rags: use rags or kitchen towels rather than paper towels to clean up messes around the house. Keep that extra cash in your wallet and that paper out of the landfill!
• Sustainable Food Storage: rather than relying on single-use plastic in the kitchen, consider some reusable food storage options. Glass containers or other BPA-free containers are a great way to store leftovers. Have a bowl that is missing a lid? Swap that cling-wrap for silicone lids or beeswax wraps. Take it a step further and make your own beeswax wrap!
• Reusable Grocery Bags: did you know there are many stores that offer a discount for using your own reusable grocery bags? Make the most of this money-saving hack by storing some reusable bags in your car or purse.
• Reduce Energy Use: cut back on your electricity use and watch your electric bill shrink. Shut down computers or gaming systems at night, and unplug items when they’re not in use. Take advantage of any moderate temperatures and throw on an extra layer on a chilly day, or open your windows to air out your space with a nice breeze. 
• Smart Landscaping:if you’re looking to reduce your water use, consider water-wise landscaping options. You can find a list of plants appropriate for our climate and water here, and more information about water-efficient landscaping here.