Given the tough economic times, many families may forgo their green lifestyles in order to save money.  However in many cases you can save money by choosing healthier and/or green alternatives.  Below are some suggestions for how to stay green and save green!

1. Grow Your Own Vegetable and Herb Garden – Most of the produce in my grocery store is hours away from rot and costs a small fortune.  Consider planting your own garden and involve your children.  They’ll learn where food comes from, will be more enthusiastic about eating fresh produce from their very own garden and it’s much less expensive!
2. Replace Chemical Household Cleaners – Use white vinegar in place of bleach, baking soda to scrub your tiles/sinks, hydrogen peroxide to remove stains and lemons for a fresh scent.  I also use a steam mop my floors in place of a WetJet or equivalent.  It sanitizes without any chemicals, using only water.  Eliminating conventional household cleaners will improve the quality of your home’s indoor air and is much healthier for your family.
3. If you eat meat, add one meatless meal a week. – Meat costs a lot at the store-and it’s even more expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs.
4. Borrow from Your Local Library
5. Eliminate Bottled Water – Instead, consider purchasing a filter for your tap and a stainless steel reusable bottle for when you’re on the go.
6. Go For a Walk – It’s great exercise for the whole family and a free way to spend an afternoon.
7. Menu Planning- Planning your healthy, home cooked meals in advance helps to avoid those last minute take out calls and allows you to shop once and buy some items in bulk that will be used in multiple meals throughout the week.
8. Recycle – At the very least recycle paper.  Most cities have drop off locations if not curbside pickup and it’s a great habit to model for your children.  It’s a free activity you can do every week!
   
9. Evites/Email – Use Evite.com or email in lieu of paper invitations for your  child’s birthday party and other events.
10. Reuse – There are endless possibilities for reusing every day items – it just takes a little imagination and creativity.  And, it’s a great way to instill a sense of eco-responsibility into your child.
    

    • Consider a toy and clothing swap with local parents, or shop consignment (you can check a toy’s safety through HealthyToys.org or search for recalls here .
    • Save toilet paper rolls & cardboard boxes for craft projects.
    • Use rags (from worn out clothes!) instead of paper towels.
    • Allow others to reuse your unwanted goods through donation or participation in Freecycle.com.

How do you stay green on a budget? Please share by leaving a comment.

Tags: go green, green on a budget, recycle, reduce, reuse