The Recession May Help Americans Go Green

Because the economy has taken a permanent dip, Americans are searching for ways to have fun for free and reuse things they already have in new and different ways. As a recent college grad, I too have tried to find ways to cut back on costs and be eco-friendly on the way. The internet has been buzzing with tips and suggestions with how to save your money and make each dollar go farther, so here are my suggestions for ways to save money AND be eco-friendly at the same time.

Consider your lifestyle: If you drive everywhere, think about each and every place you drive to. How close is it? Could you walk there instead? If you have a grocery store near you, get all your friends together and walk over to buy food and make a dinner together. By walking together you get exercise, save on gas money, and reduce pollution. Also it costs less to cook a meal for more people than for just one person.

Little things add up: Stop and think about the little purchases you make, like buying water bottles from vending machines for instance. Sure it only costs a $1.25, but after doing that 10 times, you’ve spent $12.50. With that money you could buy a reusable water bottle from Target. Also, think about how many times in a week you get fast food. If you spend around $8 on eating out three times a week, that’s $24 which could easily get you a Brita filter to save on bottled water.

Get competitive with your friends: Everyone loves competition! Place bets on who can go the longest without buying anything new, with the exception of groceries and necessities, of course. You’ll find that the longer you go without buying new things the easier it is. Or collect your recycling for an entire month and at the end, turn it in for money. Who ever gets the most is the winner!

Give old things a new twist: Search through your closet and find things you haven’t worn in a while and update them with a wide belt. Or cut a dress to make it shorter and wear it with leggings. Also, try having a Swap Night. Everyone meets at someone’s house and brings items that they don’t use anymore. It could be anything from clothes to books to movies. Everyone will leave with new things without spending any money.

Pay attention to new marketing campaigns from stores: Retailers like Walmart and Target have lowered prices on items that allow you to do things from home such as nail polish, movies, and single serve food like coffee and popcorn. Did I hear someone say movie night at home?

Educate yourself: If you’re buying a new home car, or any type of large purchase, make sure you completely understand where your money is going. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the person who is selling you your item, they are there to answer your questions. You don’t want to end up paying more than you originally intended.

The point is that people don’t realize just how easy it is to downsize and be eco-friendly at the same time. Just by doing little things, you can make your life that much easier!