Earth Day: Living a Greener Life

Earth Day, first celebrated in 1970, is an annual worldwide event focused on encouraging practices that support environmental protection. Inspired by the upcoming holiday, we came across an article from Money Magazine titled “10 Super Easy Practices That Are Good for the Earth – and Your Budget” that makes a playful connection between environmental and financial hygiene habits by sharing everyday practices that promote both an earth-friendly and a budget-friendly lifestyle.

We’ve listed the ten practices and a brief summary below and we encourage you to read the article in its entirety here on the Money Magazine website for additional details. Happy Earth Day!

1. Walk or Bike

• • Reduces the use of fossil fuels or electricity
  • Decreases driving related expenses including car payments, insurance, and gas

2. Group Errands Together

• • Reduces congestion on the roads
  • Saves time and gas money

3. Use Public Transportation

• • Reduces carbon emissions from cars and driving
  • Can save time with a more consistent (and often more affordable) commute

4. Drink Tap Water

• • Reduces the quantity of single-use plastics
  • According to consumer reports, costs 100 times less than bottles

5. Shop with Reusable Bags

• • Reduces the need for single-use plastics
  • Costs less than plastic bags in states that charge for non-reusable bags

6. Don’t Overdo It on Groceries

• • Reduces the amount of food waste collecting in landfills
  • Decreases personal food expenses

7. Heat and Cool Your Home Wisely

• • Reduces the use of fossil fuels or electricity
  • Trims household costs with simple changes (i.e. better insulation, using timers on systems when they’re not needed, etc.)

8. Use Energy-Efficient Lightbulbs, Appliances

• • Reduces the use of electricity
  • Lessens utility bills over time

9. Be Practical About Landscaping

• • Saves water and reduces the use of chemicals
  • Easier maintenance and decreases gardening expenses

10. Compost

• • Reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides
  • Decreases water bills and can be eligible for municipality discounts