Sometimes it might seem that the idea of saving money and saving the environment are two very different things. It’s hard to do both, and trying to do one over the other can lead to guilt and worry.
The good news is that, in fact, saving money at the same time as helping the environment doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might think. Here are some of the ways you can make yourself, and the planet, happier at the same time.
Walk More
The less you drive (or take public transport) the better. Walking is good for your health, which is a great start, but it is also good for the environment and your finances. No matter what kind of vehicle you have, you are going to need to spend money on it. From simple things like gas and taxes to more expensive items such as repairs and maintenance, plus the car itself, it’s all going to add up.
If you can sell your vehicle and start walking more, not only will you be helping yourself, but you’ll be helping the planet too. Depending on the type of car you have, you can easily sell it to We Buy Exotics or to someone who really needs a vehicle and is happy to buy a used car. Again, you’ll be making a little money to put into your savings fund.
Of course, it may not be possible to walk everywhere you want to go in which case you might think about a car share. This has less impact on your finances and the environment, and could be a good compromise.
Buy Used Clothing
Clothing is expensive. Even if you only buy new clothes once in a while, it still costs a lot of money. Regarding the environment, the way clothing is made is bad for the planet. The process wastes a lot of water and resources, and creates waste – most old clothing is taken to landfill, making more problems for the world.
When you buy used clothes this doesn’t happen. The landfills won’t be filled with clothes as people like you will be buying the items in second hand stores. Often there is nothing wrong with the clothing at all apart from the fact that someone decided they didn’t want it anymore. It will be perfectly wearable. Plus, you will be saving money. When you shop in a thrift store or a Goodwill, the price you pay for clothes will be a fraction of the cost of what you would be paying in a store at the mall, or even online.
Cut Down on Food Waste
Do you find that you are throwing out groceries each week to make room for the new ones you are buying? That is a big waste, and not only is it bad for the planet and its resources, it is also bad for your pocket. Therefore it is crucial that you cut down on food waste.
To do this, ensure you go shopping with a list and that you have planned out the week’s meals in advance. If you do this, you will only buy what you need and you shouldn’t have to throw anything out. It might take a little getting used to, but it will be worth it once you realize how much you’re saving.