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Earth Day-Go Green…Save Green

 I have to admit when it was still considered a bit quirky to be ‘green’ I was keen to do my part to help the environment. Things like recycling bottles and magazines, buying recycled paper, composting yard waste, walking and riding my bike instead of driving to the local store. Although my main motive wasn’t to save money, when I think back these are all ways that I probably did manage to keep more money in my purse. Here are some ways you can go green and save green at the same time-

Free Exercise

Maybe a pricey health club membership is out of your reach right now, but there’s something that’s free and can really keep you in shape, and that’s taking a walk. It also makes the ideal free activity the whole family can do together. Daylight Savings is already kicked in and with warmer weather on the horizon; it’s the perfect summer workout. And as it looks like the price of gas isn’t going to tumble anytime soon, why not dust off the bike, tune it up and head out for a ride.

Another Person’s Treasure

How many times do you get tired of something and toss it into the trash? Okay, I’ve been guilty of this one more times than I care to admit to. But you’ve got some other options. Either sell it and make yourself some pocket money. Donate it to charity and take a tax deduction. If you really want to get rid of it, why not put a sign on it saying it’s free and leave it at the end of your driveway.

Paint Recycling

The area where I live has a center where you can take items like paint, vanish etc. to prevent them getting into landfills and contaminating the water supply. It’s not only a free way to rid yourself of some leftover paint but they also have a section that houses full cans of paint people have turned in for one reason or another. Some of the colors might be a bit wild, which is probably why they found themselves there in the first place, but if you’re in the mood to try a new color for free, check if your area has one of these centers.

Leave the Room, Turn it Off

How many times do you leave a room and forget to turn off the light or TV knowing you won’t be returning there for an hour or more? Or do you leave the cord you recharge your cell phone or laptop with, in the outlet all the time? If you really want to know what appliances are taking the most electricity I found this neat little item in the Real Goods catalog called Kill-a-Watt  from www.realgoodscatalog.com.

Rechargeable Batteries

I’m gradually making the switch to rechargeable batteries and like many ways to go green, the intial investment is high but then the savings kick in later.

Rethink and Reuse It

I always look for ways to use leftover containers and boxes. Things like oatmeal containers and pasta sauce jars are perfect for organizing everything from the pantry to your craft supplies.

Recycle Bank

Where I live when we recycle we get points that we can trade in for coupons and gift cards. Check if your local area has a similar program www.recyclebank.com

Neighborhood Swap

And here’s something more people are doing, swapping unwanted items with neighbors and friends. A great way to keep things out of the landfill while getting something you need.

Some Web Sites of Interest

I found these Web sites you might like to check out the ecomall has links to just about anything related to things like organics, recycling and products that can help save the plant and your budget. http://www.ecomall.com/
www.earthday.org

http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/green-guide/

http://eartheasy.com/guides.html

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