Twenty Money Saving Tips to Help you Save Energy and the Environment

Are you concerned about global warming? Do you fear that landfills will be located in every neighborhood polluting the air you breathe, the water system and the playgrounds your children pay in? Even if you aren't an environmental guru or a "tree hugger," there are several easy and inexpensive things you can do in your home to save energy and money. You don't have to go out and spend thousands of dollars on upgrading your systems, such as electric, water and sewer. Contractors do not need to take over your home installing new doors and window treatments and solar energy power sources.

Recycle: If you do not believe that recycling makes a difference take this challenge. Notice how many bags of trash you have each day without recycling. Recycle for one week and you will see that you actually have more things in the recycling container than you do in the trash can

Here are a few tips for recycling: wash out the cans, jars, and other containers as you use them. Rinse out the cans while you are cooking. If you have any doubts look for the recycling symbol on the side of the container. You may be surprised. Many items are recyclable such as fruit and vegetable cans, two liters, milk cartons, juice containers, beer cans, pop cans, ready to feed containers of formula, glass, and even the boxes that your cereal, cereal bars and fruit snacks come in. I collect up my items in a bowl while I am cooking, walk over to the sink and rinse them out while I am doing the dishes. A plastic bag from Kroger's or Wal-Mart sits inside one of the sinks and everything is dropped in there. This is easy to do, does not involve scrubbing and is good for the environment.

If you do not have a recycling service in your area there are a few ways you can recycle at home. Try using empty baby food jars to make your own candles. Take empty yogurt containers and fill them with paint or homemade play dough. You can even use a toilet paper roll to determine if an item is a choking hazard for your young child.