Changing a few small things about your lifestyle can help you start to live a little bit greener. Here are some inexpensive, and some free, ways to save energy around your home, and keep more of your hard earned money in your pocket!
1. Wash your clothes in cold water. Heating the water is what uses the majority of the energy. In fact, some detergents are even designed to work best with cold water so you can use less energy.
2. In the summer, hang your clothes outside to dry instead of using the dryer. When you bring them inside, toss them in the dryer for about 5 minutes to fluff them. Again, you’ll reduce the amount of energy you use and your clothes will have that fresh-air smell!
3. Walk instead of drive whenever possible. Not only is this a wonderful form of daily exercise, you won’t be putting gas in your vehicle every other day and you’ll be keeping some green in your pocket! If walking isn’t an option, try to find someone you can carpool with or take public transportation.
4. Plant trees around your home, office, etc. The world can never have enough trees, so plant away! Trees are inexpensive, require little maintenance, and act as filters by removing air pollution from the atmosphere. Having plants in your home is a great way to improve the air quality too, not to mention it can be relaxing to water them and an excuse to take a break!
5. Shop at your local farmer’s market instead of a chain grocery store. Not only will your produce be cheaper, but you will be supporting members of your local community. An added benefit is that less pesticides are used because the produce does not have to travel long distances. If you live here in Savannah, the Forsyth Farmer’s Market is one of the best!
These 5 simple ways to start living a green lifestyle will not only help you reduce the amount of energy you use, but you will save money on your electric bill, foods, and car maintenance.
I would love to hear about the ways you live a green lifestyle, please tell me about them in the comment box below!
