Go green on any budget: Ideas from the extreme to ones that save you green
April 23, 2010
The smart consumer knows the difference between the things they can afford and those they can’t, and to only make purchases that fit within their budget. The smart eco-friendly consumer stretches their dollar even further by making purchases that are not only beneficial to their bank account, but to the environment as well.
From extreme green living ideas (better for big budgets) to money-saving ideas to be more environmentally friendly (perfect for those with not a lot to spend), MMI offers the following ideas for going green.
Energy efficient home
Extreme: Equip your home with solar panels or wind turbines to generate electricity. Install a composting toilet. Grow all your food in a greenhouse in the backyard.
Saves you green: See if you qualify for a state-approved appliance rebate programs. Thanks to Congress approving a national $300 million budget to support these state-approved programs, you could get money back when you purchase an Energy Star appliance like a hot water heater, dishwasher, or washing machine to make your home more energy efficient. Visit EnergySavers.gov to learn about the appliance rebate program in your state.
Eco-friendly Travel
Extreme: Cruise around in an eco-friendly neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) like the Peapod. These all-electric cars are environmentally friendly because they don’t use gas or give off ozone-depleting emissions. Starting at $12,500 and maxing out at speeds of 25 miles per hour, the Peapod maybe a little too pricey for Sunday drives around the neighborhood.
Saves you green: If you can’t afford an electric car or a hybrid, there are still ways to save on fuel. Use cruise control and make sure you car tires are properly inflated to improve fuel efficiency. Also consider carpooling or taking public transportation.
Green education
Extreme: If you are planning on furthering your education and are seeking to match your passion for the environment with a college that has demonstrated an above average commitment to sustainability, you can probably find the university for you on The Princeton Review’s Guide to 286 Green Colleges.
Saves you green: Take advantage of free online resources to further your education. BigGreenPurse.com has a wealth of information on how to live green. In addition, the free articles and tools on MoneyManagement.org can help you become a more financially literate consumer, so you can better manage your money and budget for green purchases. Just remember to turn off your computer when you’re not soaking up all the free knowledge online.