While being green is often associated with being expensive, it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips on how you can save money while doing what is best for the environment!
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Bring Lunch: It reduces waste from takeout lunches like styrofoam, plastic, and paper; while saving you five to ten dollars a day!
- Eat Vegetarian (at least occasionally): It is believed that raising animals for food is contributing to global warming. Vegetarian alternatives like pasta and beans are much less expensive than meat!
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Shop Online: It is a more eco friendly way of getting what we need; saving gas and many grocery bags. There are also great online deals and coupons that can save you 10-15% or more!
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Buy Bulk: It reduces the amount of wasteful packaging and trips that you will have to take to the store, it saves money in the long run.
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Buy Used: If you do so, it cuts down on the emissions from manufacturing and transport of new goods. Buying used things are always cheaper than brand new; just make sure to look for gently used while shopping online!
Just a word of caution about buying used: BUGS - MOTHS – SILVER FISH – BED BUGS. A friend of mine made a ‘like new’ purchase on ebay of a white wool skirt. The only problem was the skirt came complete with moth larvae, which infested her whole closet. Sure, you can purchase used, but ALWAYS send it out for professional cleaning BEFORE you add it to your wardrobe or household decorations.
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On line billing and bill payment: Cable companies are doing it. Utilities are doing it, and if your cleaner is a member of the Green Cleaner Council they may be doing it too! Sign up for on line billing and payments whenever possible. It saves paper, transportation costs and time!
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Pick up and delivery services from your drycleaner: Make use of your cleaner’s pick up and delivery services. There is an economy of scale attached to one cleaner travelling to many homes, as opposed to each customer making a trip to the cleaner. Saves you time too!
Visit www.greencouncilcleaners.com to find a GREEN cleaners near you!
