5 Frugal Way to Save Money and Be Eco-Friendly at The Same Time

If we think about it, really, it’s a no brainer. Almost everything which is greener and eco-friendlier ultimately saves you money on the long term. However, we also know that some of the environmentally friendly swaps are not cheap and sometimes more expensive than the other options. Therefore I thought I’d collect a few ideas how to save money and be kind to Mother Earth at the same time. You might be already made a few swaps and hopefully you’ll find some new ideas on my list.

Stop buying bottled water and soft drinks

I know a lot of us are trying hard on this, because thankfully everyone seem to be talking about it. Even the Word of 2018 was “plastic-free” There are of course the easy swaps: reusable bottles, cutting down on soft drinks (because it’s bad for your health anyway), reusable coffee cups for your takeaway coffee – they will all save you money. Filtering water at home and using your own water bottle saves lots of money and if you take your coffee from home to your workplace instead of buying a coffee shop coffee every day – now that will save you hundreds of pounds throughout the year. 

Invest in energy saving and renewables

Whilst the upfront cost is there and we can’t deny that it’s a significant difference in price: making your house more energy efficient will save you money – and again, better for the environment. From small changes like buying energy efficient light bulbs, keeping an eye on what energy rating the home appliance has we’re just about to buy to installing solar panels (yes, even in the UK!) there are many ways to do this. There’s always a way to get it financed, just do a quick research on instant loans. 

Buy second hand

Buying used goods is one of the best ways to save money and the environment at the same time. I never really buy new things myself, very rarely purchase new clothes for instance. (If I do, I make sure that they are ethically produced and the quality will allow me to wear them for a long time.) Fast fashion is probably the worst thing ever happened to our planet in the last few decades. Not to mention the unethical way these goods are being produced. Buying second hand furniture, books, household items, car, anything really saves you lot of money. By buying used, you also cut down on things that end up in landfills and you are not supporting energy and water-intensive industries, like – again – the fashion industry.

Cut down on food waste

I’m not going to say, go and shop at the organic farmers market only, because it’s impossible for most of the people. But do buy things you will eat – it only requires a little bit of planning. Buy the soon to expire or less then perfect items off the supermarket shelves – they are cheaper too. If you have a garden, try to grow your own food. Herbs can even live on the balcony! It’s cheaper, less waste and it’s fun too. Also, obviously going meat free or pledging to consume less meat and dairy products are good for your health, your wallet and the environment too.

Less is more

This is my general advice when it comes to life: take a shower and have an occasional hot bath. Eat less, stop snacking rubbish food – your health and wallet will be happy and you create less landfill. Learn how to enjoy cooking and making delicious and healthy food instead of regular takeaways – but do have an occasional one, once a month kind of thing. Turn the heating down and trow a comfy blanket on. Use less expensive products without harmful chemicals for keeping your body and home clean.

It’s all not so complicated – just one step at the time and you’ll see the difference you can make. We can all make it!