We've seen many lifestyle trends come and go, but it's safe to say that being more mindful of the way we affect the environment in our daily lives won't be going out of style soon.
Caring for our planet bears just as much weight as caring for our own health, which is why more and more people are putting a lot of effort in trying to go 'green.'
Unfortunately, some are still under the wrong impression that such efforts are both expensive and time-consuming.
In reality, small changes can provide noticeable benefits to you and the environment.
Here are some ways you can save some green when going 'green':
1. Replacing your appliances Newer, energy-efficient appliances need less electricity to work. They may be more expensive, but they can deliver monthly cost savings that can help recoup your initial investment.
If you're in doubt, you can consult a contractor to help you make smart decisions. A water heater that might seem like a good deal to you could come with hidden costs.
For appliances that don't have energy-efficient models or consume too little electricity to matter, you can help keep them out of a landfill by having them repaired when they break down.
2. Making smart food choices Organic foods contain no pesticides or fertilizers and are often grown using less water. However, they are also significantly more expensive than standard produce.
If you're looking for more affordable alternatives, you can:
Head to a farmers markets to cut out the grocery store middle man, reducing fuel costs associated with shipping food.
Grow your own food by planting fruits and vegetables you eat the most.
Purchase fruits and vegetables when they are abundant and cost significantly less.
Sign up for community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs and have fresh food delivered to your door while supporting your local farmers at the same time.
3. Skipping single-use products Many of the products we buy every day are disposable. And every time we throw them away, we harm both the environment and our pockets. Bottled water, for example, come in plastic containers that can take decades to break down, if they break down at all. If you bring your own water in a stainless-steel bottle instead, you not only save money, but eliminate a significant source of plastic pollution as well. Use that same mindset to avoid other single-serve products, including paper towels and facial wipes, which you can replace with cloth products. You can also bring your own mug when visiting your favorite coffee shop to skip on cardboard cups and plastic lids. Some shops will even give you a small discount for doing so.
4. Saving on water One quick way to cut water costs is by using a simple barrel and downspout. Collect rainwater and use it to water your garden. Your plants won't notice the difference, but you'll see the change in your monthly budget. You can also cut back on laundry and dishwashing water use by doing full loads. Your appliances need a specific amount of fluid to operate, which means you'll end up using the same amount of water—and electricity—for less loads.
Tiny changes to your bathroom habits can likewise cut your water use. Think about water when you: - Brush your teeth - Wash your hands - Bathe - Wash dishes by hand
Turn off the faucet for even the few seconds or minutes that you're not using it. Installing water-conserving shower heads and faucets can also help to cut back on your usage.
5. Reassessing your commute Millions of people take solo car trips to and from work, which adds a tremendous amount of pollution to the air. Car payments, auto insurance, and gasoline are all required to make these trips possible. Cut your transportation costs and help save the planet by swapping out your car for a bike. You'll be part of a growing group of eco-commuters that, over the past decade, has risen by 60%. You'll need a good bike and a helmet to make this adjustment, but after these initial expenses, you could ride your bike to work with no associated costs at all. If biking isn't right for you, consider sharing your commute with others. Take public transportation or carpool with others to minimize your carbon footprint while saving money at the same time.
6. Using Earth-friendly cleaning products Some cleaning products use toxic chemicals that get washed into streams and rivers, harming everything across its path. The volatile organic compounds (VOC) in them can also affect indoor air quality and add to outdoor smog. Make sure the products you use at home are safe for your family and the environment.
Shaklee's Get Clean Starter Kit includes products that are safe around your little ones, powerful against even the most stubborn dirt, green for the planet, and smart on your wallet.
Basic H2 Organic Super Cleaning Concentrate
Scour Off
Nature Bright Laundry Booster and Stain Remover
Hand Dish Wash Concentrate
Dish Washer Automatic Powder Concentrate
Fresh Laundry Concentrate HE Compatible
And more!
When you purchase this pack, you also make a positive impact on the planet:
Keeps 108 pounds of packaging waste from landfills.
Eliminates 248 pounds of greenhouse gas.
Even minor lifestyle changes geared towards helping preserve our planet can be effective if done collectively.
Let's make a concerted effort by making smart choices for the environment and our pockets.
Thanks for reading, Jody on behalf of Your Shaklee Team
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