At a time when our environment is at a crucial stage of pollution and even destruction, every little thing we can do to help save it (or what’s left of it) is essential for our own survival. Moreover, maybe even without us knowing it, we are also saving our money along the way. Here are simple, in fact often neglected, yet very important ways in helping save our Mother Earth…and our money. Check the line if you’re practicing the following guidelines.

ENERGY

_ Switch off the lights when leaving the room.

_ Unplug appliances when not being used.

_ Use compact fluorescent light bulbs to save money and energy.

_ Clean or replace air filters in your air conditioning unit at lease once a month.

_ Check and fix water leaks in your faucets.

_ Don’t wash dishes or brush your teeth with water running continuously.

_ Iron your clothes on specific days and not everyday.

DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

_ Recycle printer cartridges.

_ Use cloth napkins instead of paper ones.

_ Use reusable plates and utensils instead of disposable ones.

_ Use reusable containers to store food instead of aluminum foil, styrofoam and cling wrap.

_ Reuse packaging cartons and shipping materials. Everyday items like old newspapers make great packaging materials.

SHOPPING

_ Review labels of household cleaners you use. Consider alternatives like baking soda, scouring pads, water and a little more effort.

_ Buy used furniture. There is a surplus of it and it is much cheaper than new furniture.

AT HOME

_ Use traps instead of rat poison and insect killers.

_ Use a ceramic mug instead of a disposable paper or plastic cup.

_ Use the electric fan instead of air conditioning.

AT SCHOOL/ WORK

_ Use email instead of paper for everyday letters.

_ Recycle paper – use the back part for notes. Copy and print on both sides.

_ Reuse items like envelopes, folders and paper clips.

TRAVEL AND TRANSPORT

_ Carpool to school and to the office.

_ Walk if you’re not going too far.

_ Learn to ride a bike – it’s good for  your health.

_ Check your car for oil and other leaks and recycle motor oil.

LIFESTYLE

_ Mend clothes instead of buying new ones.

_ Keep score of your utilities (electricity, water, telephone). Find out which months you consume more and be conscious of cutting down consumption.

_ Plan your own greener parties. You can find more creative and even money-saving ways to celebrate than just eating out a restaurant.

FOOD

_ Do not waste food. Cook only what you can consume.

_ Do not leave open bags of food. Seal them well and store in the proper place.

Hope you checked everything!