Living a sustainable lifestyle is a great way also to live a frugal one. As someone who lives frugally and looks to save money wherever I can, I have noticed a direct correlation between living frugally and living sustainably. Reducing consumption and living more mindfully about the resources we use is both frugal and sustainable.
Here are some of the ways you can be frugal and sustainable.
1. Reduce Water Usage
Reducing your daily water usage is a great way to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Some practical ways to do this include taking shorter showers and turning off the water when you don’t need it.
2. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Some types of appliances take up much more energy than others. Make the switch to more energy-efficient appliances instead of standard models.
3. Opt for Public Transportation
Driving a personal vehicle emits carbon monoxide into the environment, as well as taking up fuel. Consider using public transportation instead to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
4. Carpool or Rideshare
Another way to reduce your negative environmental impact is by carpooling with friends, family, or coworkers. Plus, you’ll be saving on gas money!
5. Walk or Bike for Short Trips
Headed to a store that’s only a couple of miles away? Why not walk or bike instead of hopping in the car?
6. Install Solar Panels
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electric energy, making them an eco-friendly and cost-efficient choice.
7. Compost Organic Waste
Not everything belongs in the trash! Start a compost bin or pile for any organic waste, such as food and vegetable scraps.
8. Reduce Meat Consumption
Eating less meat can help you live a more sustainable lifestyle by lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
9. Buy Locally-Produced Food
Buying locally produced food gives back to the local economy and is often richer in nutrients than alternatively sourced food.
10. Plant a Garden
Grow your own food at home, and enjoy the many benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables.
11. Use Reusable Shopping Bags
Using reusable shopping bags reduces paper and plastic waste and is cheaper in some parts of the world.
12. Reduce Plastic Use
Reducing your plastic use is one of the best ways to live a more sustainable lifestyle. There are many ways you can do this, from buying less plastic to reusing more household items.
13. Recycle Paper and Cardboard
Many people aren’t actually recycling items when they can be! Paper and cardboard are both recyclable, in addition to plastics.
14. Use LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs are more energy efficient than traditional lighting, as well as being longer-lasting.
15. Lower the Thermostat in Winter
Lowering the thermostat during colder weather is a good way to prevent heat loss and save energy.
16. Increase the Thermostat in Summer
Increasing the thermostat during warmer weather is a proven way to reduce your overall energy consumption. Experts recommend setting your thermostat at 78 degrees when you’re away for maximum effect.
17. Insulate Your Home
Insulating your home reduces its overall energy use, helping you live a more sustainable lifestyle.
18. Repair and Maintain Items
Instead of buying new products every time something breaks, try maintaining and repairing your belongings instead.
19. Buy Secondhand or Vintage
Try going to secondhand or vintage stores for your clothes and household shopping. Not only does this reduce eventual landfill waste, but it’s also cheaper!
20. Purchase Eco-Friendly Products
Many products have “green” or eco-friendly alternatives; look for and purchase these next time you go shopping!
21. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat helps you maintain temperatures and reduce energy use even when you’re not at home.
22. Invest in Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows prevent heat (or cool air) from escaping your home. This minimizes the use of AC and heating units, helping save energy!
23. Support Renewable Energy
Support renewable energy initiatives that are local. You’ll be giving back to your community and the planet.
24. Minimize Food Waste
Minimize your personal food waste by meal planning, reusing leftovers, and only making reasonable portions.
25. Reduce Single-Use Plastics
Cut out single-use plastics and move towards reusable items instead.
26. Limit Air Travel
Flying might be quick and convenient, but it’s not great for the planet. Limiting your air travel when you can is a good way to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
27. Use a Reusable Water Bottle
Use a reusable water bottle and fill it up at home or at reusable water stations.
28. Buy in Bulk
When you buy items in bulk, you help to reduce unneeded packaging waste.
29. Choose Sustainable Seafood
Many people love eating seafood – but unfortunately, not all seafood is caught ethically. Choosing sustainably sourced seafood is a great option, rather than completely cutting seafood out of your diet.
30. Use a Clothesline Instead of a Dryer
Dryers use up large amounts of energy – why not use the old-fashioned clothesline method instead? Hang your clothes to dry and save energy- and your white clothes will stay whiter too!
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