There’s been a lot of talk over the last several years about how much of an impact we — and our habits — have on the environment. If you’re looking to do your part, there are many things you can do around your own house that will have an immediate effect. Let’s take a look at our top recommendations to get you started.
Replace Those Light Bulbs!
It’s easy to want to go cheap and buy store brand lights or buy the regular light bulbs that we’ve known for the last umpteen years. However, if you’re looking to cut down on electricity usage, which is good for your wallet and the environment, LED bulbs are the way to go. Plus, they’re touted to last up to 10 years, so you know you won’t be replacing them every couple of months. Save money on bulbs, save money on your electric bill and do your part to help the environment – that’s what we call nifty!
Check Your Shampoo
Shampoo is a must, it keeps your locks luscious and clean, but did you know there are some that are terrible for the environment? They’re laden with chemicals, which when you wash out of your hair, go down the drain and into the town or city’s water system.
Instead, opt for an environmentally-friendly shampoo that’s free of detergents and sulfates (which are horrible for hair, by the way). These contain natural cleansers that don’t strip your hair of the natural oils they need. As a bonus, your hair won’t get oily as quickly because your scalp won’t be working overtime to replace the natural oil barrier. This means you use shampoo less and it lasts longer, so you spend less overall!
Donate and Shop at Thrift Stores
When the bug to redecorate strikes, it’s easy enough to go to the stores and purchase new items. However, you’re just adding more stuff to your home, making for an increasingly cluttered environment. Just take a look in your linen closet or your garage and you’re sure to see clothes, decorations and the like that you’re simply not using anymore. They’re taking up space, so here’s a win-win situation: donate to thrift or second-hand shops.
There’s always a demand for clothes, towels and home goods. By getting rid of the stuff you no longer use, you’re freeing up space in your home. But it makes no sense to throw it out, if it’s still perfectly usable. As a bonus, some second-hand shops offer a small incentive for donating, which you can turn around and use to purchase goods or clothes that may catch your eye. Plus, many people have found hidden gems in the form of luxury purses or fine china that are worth a lot of money.
Step Away From Plastic
Many products come in plastic packaging, which often gets stuck in the landfills. Before you know it, you have a garbage bag full of recyclables or trash, which is even worse if you live in a city or town with no recycling program. A better option is to choose products that come in reusable containers such as glass jars or decorative boxes. You can even find environmentally-friendly containers that compost easily, eliminating the need to toss them in the trash. Also, make a conscious effort not to use plastic bags when you shop. Instead, opt for reusable ones that often last for years and can carry more.
When it comes to saving the environment and saving money tend to hand-in-hand, and both are beneficial. In the end, you’ll have more money in your wallet and a better Earth to hand down to your children.
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