As unrelated as those two issues may seem on the surface, the environment and the economy actually have a lot in common. Environmentally-based jobs, in fact, are having a positive impact on the economy, as jobs that did not exist as recently as a decade ago are now opening more and more doors each day. What's more, living an eco-friendly lifestyle can make a substantial, and positive, impact on an individual's bottom line in a number of ways. The following tips are not only ways in which individuals can positively impact the environment, but also save themselves some money.
* Purchase rechargeable batteries. Perhaps because they're so small, batteries are often overlooked among those attempting to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. However, disposable batteries cannot break down into organic compounds, so when they're thrown away the harmful chemicals that make them up can actually hurt the environment. Rechargeable batteries have no such side effect and can help save on the cost of re-purchasing new batteries when exisiting ones die. While rechargeable batteries often cost more when initially purchased, their ability to be used again and again after charging more than make up for that initial cost differential.
* Replace old appliances. While it might not seem purchasing expensive new household appliances is a great way to save money, it actually can be. If old, energy-draining appliances are replaced with newer, more efficient models, that can trim substantial amounts of money from the yearly energy bill while also making a very positive environmental impact.
* Clip coupons. To many, clipping coupons might seem somewhat archaic. However, newspapers, particularly Sunday editions, are still full of hundreds of coupons or other discount offers each week. While the coupons can clearly save shoppers money, they also give shoppers a better idea of what they're looking for when heading to the store. For example, with a handful of coupons already in a wallet or purse, shoppers will know exactly what it is they'll be shopping for. That leads to less inconvenient trips to the grocery store, which in turn saves gas and money. Saving the gas is good for the environment, while saving money is good for everyone, especially at a time when people are looking to save more and more.
* Use a water filter. People across the globe purchase billions of plastic water bottles each year, many of which are filled with water. The negative impact of unrecycled plastic bottles is well documented. In addition, when forced over the last year to sit down and examine some of their daily expenses, more and more people realized they're spending foolishly on everyday items, including bottled water. A water filter can provide equally clean and healthy water as bottled water, but does so at a fraction of the cost to both the environment as well as an individual's wallet.
