Earth Day is a great way to reflect on how you’re treating our planet, whether you’re going through way too many water bottles or leaving the water running there are many ways you can alter what you to do affect the world! We have a great list of ideas for you to not only start to save the planet but save your money too!
Reusable Water Bottles
We know water is important for our bodies, but did you know that every year Americans use about 50 billion water bottles? By reusing the water bottles that you have as many times as possible (sanitary wise) or even getting a glass bottle you can not only start saving money but cut back on all the waste that is put out into the world each year.
Cut Back On Water Usage
Do you take long hot showers? Do you leave the water running while you brush your teeth? Did you know that according to the Glen Canyon Institute of Water Conservation, each year an average family of four uses 15-25 gallons of water per 5-minute shower, and 40 gallons per 10-minute shower? Better yet, if you’re one of those people who leave the water running while you brush, you’re using 5 gallons of water! These are some pretty crazy numbers, right? Do us all a favor, turn the water off!
Reuse and Repurpose
If you’re like some of us here at Tidewater Mortgage Services, you can go all out decorating your new home with brand new shiny objects. But what about all sad lonely objects you used to own, where did they go? By painting your old furniture, re-upholstering your favorite family couch you or even just switching out pictures you save a great amount of money!
Make Your Own Green Cleaning Products
Even if you’re not an avid DIY’er, we have faith that you can make your own cleaning products. Pollution is a worldwide problem and spraying those carpet and window cleaners every day isn’t helping. But, by making your own cleaning products with water and vinegar you’re saving money and saving the planet.
Stop Wasting Food
Are you tired of astounding statistics yet? We’re not! The average person in North America wastes about 209 to 253 pounds of food every year! Woah, that number is a doozy so how do we combat that? Well, studies show that by sticking to a list of the foods products you actually need from the grocery store instead of those impulse Oreo purchases, you can save money and save the planet from food waste.
Bring Your Own Bags
Paper or plastic…the common question asked when you’re checking out at the grocery store. Start answering with something new when you bring your own reusable green bags, by doing this you are cutting back on those bags and at some stores getting a discount. Places like: Foodland, Kroger, Lowe’s, Target, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods will all give you a discount on your total by using your own bags brought from home. So, it’s a double whammy – save on your total and save the planet one reusable bag at a time.
Recycle or Sell Those Old Electronics
Do you have your eyes set on that brand new TV? Well, riddle us this…what happens to your old TV, are you planning on tossing it? We have a new idea for you, sell it. If it’s still working you might as well sell it at a yard sale or even Craigslist. If you were to just trash you’re not only wasting money but you’re trashing products that are harmful to the environment like lead, arsenic, and mercury that are found in laptops, cell phones, and tablets!
Use these tips to save the planet this year and every year! And don’t forget to contact Tidewater Mortgage Services for any of your lending needs!
