Going green doesn't just benefit the environment; it also helps your bank account. Here are some ways that going green can save you some green. Conserve energy. Set the thermostat a few degrees warmer in the summer and a few degrees colder in the winter to cut back on cooling and heating costs. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs once your incandescent bulbs burn out, and unplug appliances when they aren't in use. Alternately, you can use a power strip with a built-in sensor that cuts energy use when the appliances are turned off. When you wash your clothes, use cold water, and dry them on a clothesline or rack. All of these simple practices will not only decrease energy consumption, they will also lower your electric bill. You can save money by saving water as well. Install a low-flow showerhead--an investment that will quickly pay for itself in energy savings--and take shorter showers, which will also lower your heating bill. Put a faucet aerator on each faucet; these conserve heat and water while still maintaining a high water pressure. Finally, reconsider your landscaping. Large lawns require large amounts of water. Think about replacing part of the grass with a rock garden and/ or native plants that require watering less frequently. Another way to save money--and to improve your health--while going green is to walk or bike to work. Not only will you save on gas, parking costs, and/ or bus fare, you'll also better your cardiovascular health and reduce your risk of a heart attack or obesity. If you live too far from work to bike, move closer, try telecommuting, or carpool. Any of these options will help you cut back on money you spend on your car. Think before you buy, and get creative in your spending. For example, if you eat a lot of meat, try having one or two meatless meals every week. Purchase a water filter for your tap instead of buying bottled water, which is expensive and creates enormous amounts of waste. Take a reusable water bottle to work instead. Get books and movies from the library for free rather than buying them. Check out garage sales and thrift stores for good deals on secondhand products. If you smoke, quit, or consider using electronic cigarettes. Buy and wear clothes that don't require dry cleaning. Once you start going green, you'll soon find you're saving green.
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