3 Ways to Go Green and Save Money Each Week

Lately, there seem to be two things that have permeated society: the economy and the environment. While many Americans are struggling to find steady work, there has also been a rise in the awareness of environmental issues. Fortunately, going green and saving money go hand in hand. By taking some simple steps each week you can do your part in helping the environment and save some money.

1. Use Public Transit, Carpool, Bike, or Walk to Work

I don't have a car, and while this may be a pain sometimes, it also means that I don't have any car payments or insurance bills to worry about. But most importantly, it means I don't have to spend ridiculous amounts of money each week on gas. While everyone else is cringing over the cost of gas, I am sitting happily on a bus that will take me all the way to downtown for 2 bucks. I also get my daily exercise from this because there is some walking involved.

This may be easier for those of you who live in a bustling city with an actual transit system, but the rest of you still have many options. If you don't live in an area where there is public transit you can always take turns carpooling with your co-workers. Better yet, kick it up a notch and do something healthy by biking or walking to work.

2. Make Your Own Breakfast Smoothies

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it gives you the energy you need and keeps you from starving all morning. Unfortunately, sometimes we're in such a hurry that we either skip it or hit up the first Starbucks or smoothie place we see, which then creates a major dent in your wallet.

If you have some fruit, juice, yogurt, and a blender you can make a delicious breakfast yourself and take it to go. For instance, I have been making myself a mango-orange smoothie everyday this week. This completely eliminated my urge to grab a smoothie at Jamba Juice every morning before work and my bank account is very pleased.

3. Brown Bag Your Lunch

Eating out is a major inhibitor in our inability to save money. It's also very bad for our health because restaurants tend to serve very big portions. Avoid this by taking your lunch to work everyday. All you really need are leftovers from the night before or some deli meat and you've got yourself a meal that didn't cost you any extra money.

(Extra Tip: If you are a serial snacker or have a crazy schedule like I do, make sure to pack some munchies too!)

You will be surprised at the amount of money you can save by taking these simple actions each week. It may not seem like much at first, but eventually it all adds up.

Oh, and all of the tips I mentioned are also eco friendly. So not only are you saving money, you are also going green!