Photo by Imago2007
The most effective changes, are accomplished in small steps. To be effective, they must be ”sticky” (i.e. stick to your daily habits) and consistent.
There are many steps we can take to better the planet and just as many to save money. Some of these changes are more challenging, and complex to tackle than others.
In the spirit of small steps, I wanted to start small. I gathered 3 tips that are simple to implement right now, don’t cost a thing, and save money; all while contributing to the good of the planet.
Photo by Imago2007
1. Use Cloth Kitchen Towels - while reaching for a paper towel is convenient, not to mention, helps manufacturers with a revenue stream, is it necessary? Or are you acting out of habit?
Switch to cloth and save $100 per year, if you use 1 roll of paper towels per week.
As for the planet: if every American household eliminates paper towels use, the load of used paper towels sent to landfills every day, will be lighten by 3,000 tons of paper towels. It would also prevent 864,000 trees from being cut down).
Consider how wasteful and indulgent it is to rip a new piece of paper each time there is a spill or a crumb on a kitchen counter. Especially, if several toddlers dwell in your household, and spills and crumbs are the perpetual state of your counter.
As an effective alternative use cloth towels (Trader Joe’s has durable and stylish options), or Twist Euro Cloth.
2. Air Dry Dishes – set your dishwasher setting to air dry instead of heat dry. It takes a click of a button to save $25 per year in electricity. As for the planet, tapping “Air Dry” button reduces the energy use by 15%-50%.
Photo by Imago2007
3. Wash Clothes in Cold Water - Unless your laundry is despicable soiled, cold water is just as effective as hot water. Washing clothes in cold water also increases the items longevity and keeps the colors bright. Heat weakens fibers and fades colors.
Switch your washer to cold water setting and save on average $61 per year.
Help the planet by reducing the use of energy by 80% to 90% per wash (this is how much energy the washer uses to heat up water). Washing with cold water reduces the amount of carbon dioxide that is released into the air by 1,261 pounds CO2 per household / per year.
Remember, small steps are paramount to large changes.
| Do you have tips that save $$, help the planet, and are no frill to implement? Are you more likely to make a change and stick with it, if it is simple to implement? |
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