Go Green Cheaply: Make a Difference at Little Personal Expense

The newest trend for the world is the "green" trend. To be green means to be concerned with the environment and take steps to conserve it. This is not a new trend but it has recently gotten a huge boost. There are little things that everyone can do to cut down on garbage and increase recyclables.

Recycle the obvious stuff! Many people already recycle aluminum cans it is a nice source for a little extra class. I usually ride around the neighborhood collecting any cans I find just for the cash. It does not take much extra effort to recycle your cans just put a bin by your trash can inside that way you always remember not to throw it away.

There are many uses for old newspapers. Many Salvation Army, Goodwill, and thrift stores need extra newspaper. They use it to wrap up the glass items that are purchased at the store. Newspaper makes great kindling if you have and use a fireplace. Kids can even use it to make paper mache. If you do not like those options and your garbage company does not have a recycling option, many places have a community place to put recyclables and once a week a company comes and picks it up for free.

If you are like me then you have a ton of magazines lying around. Magazines also make great kindling but it helps to break them up a bit before you burn them. The little annoying inserts inside the magazine that begs you to subscribe, those can be used as bookmarks. Kids can decorate them or you can just use them the way they are. Magazines can also be donated to homeless shelters, battered women shelters, churches, or anywhere you can think of that needs a little help.

If you would like to take it to the next level, do a little research on the brands that you purchase and the companies that own them. See if they are the most environmental or if you need to find a new favorite brand. There is usually a low-cost, environmental option to many of the purchases we make. It is always nice to know the history of the companies and brands we purchase.

Purchase from the locals. Not only is it better for your local economy but it is normally better products. Find your local farmers market and try some of the produce. It is always fresher and it loses less water because it does not have to go through shipping so it is also healthier.

Sometimes it takes a little ingenuity but there is always a way to be more green. It does not take much more time or effort to help the environment in little ways. Every little move to be green helps in the big picture. Good luck!