How to help the environment while saving money

In recent years, environmental protection and, more specifically, energy conservation has become an important factor in determining how people live their lives. Few people consider, however, the positive difference that enjoying a frugal lifestyle can make to the environment.

The first area many should look to cut down is heating the home. An extra 2 degrees of warmth is enough to increase costs dramatically and contributes to carbon emissions so its important to try getting used to having the thermostat a little lower. Just by wearing an extra jumper you can make a big difference to your bills and the environment.

For those that can bear the thought of their home being any cooler, money can be saved on heating by maximising the insulation for the house. This can involve investing in upgrades such as loft insulation, double glazing and cavity wall insulation and, while this may sound like it would cost a lot of money, the government or some agencies may subsidise this. Extensive insulation of the home will pay off in the long run but immediate savings can be made by cutting out drafts, closing windows and using thick, insulated curtains.

Huge savings can also be made on cutting down on unnecessary car journeys. Nearly 50% of all car journeys are less than 3 miles. All of these journeys could be completed by walking or cycling. Both of these types of transport are much cheaper than filling up your vehicle with petrol, an especially important factor to consider with the current price of oil being so high.

Similarly, investing in a more cost effective car can help save a tremendous amount of money as well as minimise the detrimental effect on the environment. Is there any benefit in buying a 3 litre car which could theoretically do 170mph? A big difference can be made to petrol bills, insurance and road tax by buying a smaller engine car. This is one decision that can make a big difference.

Of course, not every decision regarding an individual’s effect on the environment has to be a big one. For example, if you reduce the temperature on your washing machine to 40 degrees most washes will have the same results but use less power and energy. Energy saving light bulbs are also a great way to reduce your living costs while also helping the environment. They are now compulsory in the UK but a look around the home may reveal other electrical appliances that can be bought in a lower power variety, saving both energy and money and helping to protect our planet.

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.