There’s no denying that the cost of living in big cities is high, and it only seems to keep rising. Every year, the price of rent goes up, utilities become more expensive, and the cost of groceries and other everyday necessities also continues to climb. Living within a tight budget can be challenging for many people. However, there are ways you can save money while also protecting the environment at the same time. It’s all about having a green footprint when it comes to your lifestyle as an urban dweller. If you feel like you’re constantly being nickel-and-dimed by your landlord or condo board, that’s probably because they are. Small fees add up over time. Consider covering your water bill rather than pay a fee every month for using it, install energy-efficient lightbulbs and appliances to reduce energy costs (even just switching from incandescent to CFL bulbs can cut costs), and use these ideas to help lower your monthly expenses even more.
Grow Your Produce
Growing your own food is an excellent method to cut costs, particularly when it comes to leafy greens. Although they are quite simple to cultivate yourself, they can be pricey to purchase from the shop. You can grow lettuce, spinach, and other greens right outside your front door if you have the space. By using a grow light indoors, you can extend your growing season. You might also try planting herbs like mint and basil in a window that gets plenty of sunlight. Veggies like tomatoes and peppers can also be grown. Although buying tomatoes from the supermarket can be pricey, growing them yourself can save you a lot of money. Plant them outside if you have a sunny area for them. Peppers can also be grown indoors since they don’t require as much sunlight.
Reduce Electricity Usage
If you’re in a high-rent building, you likely have a large electricity bill each month. If you use electricity for heating or cooling your home, you could be spending even more than the average bill. You can take steps to reduce your electricity usage and save money on your bill each month. Start by keeping your blinds closed in the summer and winter when the sun is shining or the mercury is dropping outside. This will reduce the need to use air conditioning or heat. Make sure your fridge and freezer are set to the correct temperature; if they’re too warm, they could be using more energy than they need to. Turn off appliances when you’re not using them. Unplug chargers and other small appliances when you’re not using them.
Go Green with Transportation
If you own a car, you know the costs associated with owning one can add up quickly. To help save money, consider carpooling or taking public transportation. You might find that you save money on gas, parking, and vehicle maintenance by taking the bus or carpooling. If you take public transportation, you might also save money on car insurance due to a lower risk of accidents compared to driving a car. You may even qualify for a lower rate on your insurance policy if you use public transportation. If you drive a gas-powered car, consider trading it in for an electric vehicle. They’re becoming increasingly more common as technology improves. You might even be able to get a lower car insurance rate if you have an EV.
Install a Rainwater Collector
At some point throughout the year, water shortages affect the majority of communities. If you have a roof, you can install a rainwater collector on it to use the water. It only takes a few minutes to connect them to your downspout after mounting them on your roof. You may water outdoor or interior plants with the water from the collector. If you live on a well, you can also flush your toilet with the water. Even washing your automobile is possible with the water. You can reduce the monthly cost of your water bill by using a rainwater collector. Rainwater collection can also assist in lowering your carbon impact.
Lock in Good Internet Rates Before Moving Out
You might want to think about locking in your internet fee for a while if you’re leaving an apartment. If you commit to a longer-term, certain service providers will give a lower fee. Before you even leave the house, you might be able to lock in a lower rate, depending on the supplier. Find out your provider’s moving-related policies by asking them. Before you relocate, you might be able to lock in a reduced rate for up to a year, which will enable you to reduce your subsequent cost.
Walk, Bike, or Take Public Transit
If you have a full-time job, traveling to and from work takes up a significant portion of your week. If you reside in a metropolis, your commute may be minimal or nonexistent. But if you live in a suburb and commute into the city, you can spend a lot of time in your car every day. Take the stairs or the bus if you can, or both. You might be able to earn a discount on your car insurance if you use public transportation. Walking to work will save you money on gas (not to mention wear and tear on your car).
Conclusion
Living in a city comes with a lot of challenges, but it can also come with some rewards. Among these potential benefits is the ability to live a more green lifestyle. This is because cities are often associated with high levels of pollution. When you reduce your carbon footprint, you’re helping to reduce this pollution. Reducing your carbon footprint and living a more eco-friendly lifestyle doesn’t have to be difficult. With some effort, you can save money while also protecting the environment.