In the last couple years, many Americans have felt the financial and emotional strain from the recession.  Lay-offs, trouble paying rent, borrowing money from friends and family, a pay cut, cut in hours, and difficulty finding work were only a few of the effects of the recession.  Through this time of hardship, there are things that we can do to save money while still looking out for Mother Earth. 

1. BUDGET

Probably one of the most important steps in a time of financial hardship is to create a household budget.  Start with the total net monthly income of the house hold.  Then, write down what bills you are responsible for and the date they are due.  Mortgage or rent, utilities, car insurance, car payment, gas, cell phone, food, miscellaneous (personal hygiene, household supplies, school supplies) and any other bills you may have.  Most of these numbers do not fluctuate too much, but estimate a little higher than your average costs for each.  Once you have subtracted your bills from your net income, you can budget out for other things.  You may also want to have an emergency fund where you specify an amount that you contribute to monthly.  Remember, you can have an entertainment category too, all work and no fun makes Jack a dull boy.  The remainder should go into savings account for the future.  Ask yourself about your purchases: do I need it or do I want it? Will it help me in the long run? Live within your limits and be responsible.

2. CONSERVE

Well you have a budget, now where else can you save a few extra pennies? For those of you who read the It’s Little Things Daily tip, there are numerous ways to save money and help the environment.  One tip that I am constantly reminded (thank you mom) is if you aren’t in a room, turn off the light… There’s no reason to waste electricity.  Something so little can make such a huge difference.  Additionally, make sure your house or apartment is sealed.  Another thing my mom used to do is time our showers.  We had a kitchen timer set for 3 minutes and that was our shower time.  There really wasn’t a reason to go much longer, plus all that water saved is money in your pocket.  In the summer months, open a window and use a fan to bring cool air in at night instead of using the air conditioner.  Use a blanket in the winter instead of the heater.  Think of cost effective options.  Look into Energy Star approved appliances; they will pay for themselves in the long run.  Also, replace all light bulbs with Compact Florescent Bulbs; they have a longer life and save energy!

For more money and environment saving tips, check out the It’s Little Things daily tip

3. RECYCLE

Did you know every time you purchase aluminum cans of soda or plastics that can be recycled, you are charged the redemption value? Therefore if you do not recycle it, you are losing that $0.05 per can.  That can add up over the span of a year.  So say you drink 1 soda can a day for an entire year 365 cans x 0.05 = 18.25! That’s 4.5 gallons of gas ($4/gal).  For a family of 4, it amounts to $73.00! And that may not seem like a lot, but over the span of 10 years that’s $730.  Not too shabby for recycling! Besides the money aspect, you are helping to conserve earths natural resources and reduce our carbon footprint.

 Here are a few links to help you find local recycling facilities

CA- http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/BevContainer/Recyclers/Directory/Default.aspx?lang=en-US

 US- http://earth911.com/ 

4. DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Ever thought about riding a bike to work? Reduce fuel emissions into the environment, save money on gas AND get a good workout!  If riding a bike isn’t your strong suit, carpool with a coworker!  There is also public transportation too!

Stay tuned for more helpful tips!