No Time? Save Energy!

One of the common misconceptions about being environmentally friendly is that it takes more time out of your day. In fact, quite the opposite is true! Being environmentally friend can actually save time!

Here are some simple things, in no particular order, that not only reduce your ecological footprint, but can also save time and money:

1) programmable thermostats - as I have mentioned in previous posts, I am a huge fan of programmable thermostats. Not only can they save large amounts of energy and money by heating/cooling your house only when you need it, but once set you can completely forget about it. One less thing to remember before running out of the house first thing in the morning!

2) freezers - having the time to go grocery shopping every few days is a luxury few have. As a result, when you do go grocery shopping buy lots and store the extra in a freezer for later use. This will cut out the task [and energy consumption] of having to go to the grocery store for the staples such as bread, vegetables [frozen veggies have similar nutritional value to fresh], meat and fish.

3) microwave - using the microwave rather then the oven is not only faster, but it is also more energy efficient. A microwave coupled with a well stocked freezer can make last minute dinners a snap.

4) make lots of some stuff - if you have the time to make spaghetti sauce, or some such item, make extra and freeze it. The time and energy use for a small batch is the same as a large batch, but handy leftovers like this are good for the earth.

5) shop local - rather then spending the time and energy in travelling to the other side of town to do your shopping or go to a restaurant, look for spots closer to home. The benefits of shopping local are not only in energy and time savings, but by supporting local merchants you are helping to make your community more vibrant.

Hopefully, with all this time you have now saved with these suggestions you will be able to go for a walk in a local green space to enjoy the nature that surrounds us every day.