Many people seem to still think that going green or at least living a greener lifestyle will cost them a lot more money than they are currently spending. Some even think it’s a scam, but in reality, there are several small changes you can make in your life that will will save yo a ton of money and have a positive impact on the environment.

Let’s take a look at 8 simple ways that you can achieve a greener lifestyle that will actually save you money:

1. Drink from reusable water bottles
   Plastic in landfills is one of the biggest problems and water bottles is one of the major culprits.
2. Install energy efficient, compact fluorescent light bulbs
   These light bulbs are actually a tad more expensive than the regular ones, but they’ll outlast them by up to 20 times
3. Turn the thermostat down a couple degrees and snuggle up with a sweater and a hot chocolate
   Turning the heat down just a few degrees throughout the year can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings and you may not even notice the difference in temperature. If you do, just throw on a sweater and snuggle with your mate!
4. Always wash clothes in cold water
   This is recommended for most of your clothing anyway. Why waste the hot water? Less chance of shrinkage and damage, and cuts down the hot water bill.
   
5. Hang clothes to dry in the summer for that summer fresh smell
   Who doesn’t love throwing on a tshirt that smells like the sunny outdoors? That’s Mother Nature saying thank you!
6. Replace shower heads with low flow models
   This may cost you a few extra bucks initially, but you’ll save a lot more than you spend in the long run.
7. Carpool to work
   Save money on gas, and enjoy a coffee on the way to work with a co-worker!
8. Use public transportation
   Save even more money on gas, and read a good book on the way to work.

If every single one of us put all 8 of these simple green steps into action, it would have a humongous impact on the environment. Lead by example and save yourself some money in doing so.