32 Simple Ways We Can Save Money and Be More Sustainable in 2024

Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have learned and come across various sustainable practices that can easily be incorporated into our daily lives. 

With a solid foundation of knowledge from my Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Environmental Science, combined with hands-on experience working in the professional environmental sector, I have compiled a list of 32 simple and achievable ways in which we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.

My extensive research and personal experience with sustainable products have helped me compile this list of practical tips that can make a difference in promoting a healthier environment for future generations.

1. Reduce 2. Reuse 3. Recycle

I know its cheating by counting this as three, but this mantra is important when it comes to sustainability and deserves a lot of attention.

By reducing the amount of waste we produce, reusing items whenever possible, and recycling materials to give them a new life, we can all play a role in protecting the Earth for future generations.

This commonly used mantra is key to a more sustainable future.  Most of the points on this list can relate to “reduce, reuse, and recycle” in some aspect.

Remember, every small step towards reducing, reusing, and recycling makes a difference. 

It is up to every one of us to take responsibility and make a positive impact on our environment.

4. Conserve Water

In order to conserve water, we must first know how much water we are using first.

Assessing water usage involves examining our daily habits and routines to determine how much water we are consuming and where we can make improvements. 

You can get a good estimate of how much water you use through this water use-calculator.

For example, it is estimated that 2 gallons of water are used for every minute of a shower, 4 gallons for every minute of dishwashing, and 20 gallons for every load of laundry.

A simple act of turning off the tap while brushing teeth or taking shorter showers can contribute to substantial water savings.

For more tips on how to “reduce” your water usage, visit my article, “Simple Ways to Conserve Water in Your Daily Routine and Save Money on Your Water Bill.” 

5. Save Electricity

Electricity is an indispensable part of our daily lives, powering our homes, businesses, and communities.

The majority of electricity in the world is generated by burning fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas, which release harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change into the atmosphere.

By using electricity more efficiently and reducing our overall consumption, we can help lower the demand for fossil fuels and decrease our carbon emissions.

Another important reason to save electricity is to lower energy costs and promote financial savings. 

Electricity bills can make up a significant portion of household expenses, especially during peak usage times.

Three simple ways you can immediately save electricity are:

• 1. Turning off lights when not in use

• 2. Unplugging electronics when not in use

• 3. Using natural lighting whenever possible

6. Use and Support Renewable Energy (If possible)

Out of the 32 ways to be more sustainable, using renewable energy is probably the most difficult for people.

Solar power is the renewable energy source that most people in the United States have personal access to.

One of my favorite facts is that an estimated 173,000 terawatts of solar energy will reach the Earth's surface at any given moment. 

By harnessing just a fraction of this energy, we can power our homes, businesses, and even entire cities, all while reducing our carbon footprint and preserving our natural resources.

While the cost of solar panels has decreased over the years, the upfront investment required for installation and equipment can still be prohibitive for many individuals and businesses. 

However, even if you can’t invest in solar panels yourself, you can support businesses that do.

Governments and businesses worldwide recognize the potential of renewable energy and are investing heavily in its development and implementation.

If you would like to learn more about renewable energy sources, you can read my articles; The Future of Solar Power: Exploring Renewable Energy Solutions, A Beginner's Guide to Wind Power: How it Works and Why it Matters, and Hydroelectric Energy: A Sustainable Solution.  

7. Switch to LED Lights

LED lights are very energy-efficient.  LED lights typically need 85% less electricity than standard incandescent light bulbs.

LED bulbs also have a longer lifespan and emit less heat than incandescent light bulbs.

8. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

Energy-efficient appliances can help lower your carbon footprint and substantially save on your gas and electric bills.

Examples of good energy-efficient appliances:

• Induction cooktops

• Convection ovens

• Front Load washers

• Refrigerator with better insulation and a more efficient compressor

• Water-efficient dishwashers with soil sensors

• Heat Pump Dryer

Energy Star is a widely recognized and trusted symbol for energy efficiency worldwide. 

It is a program that was created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States in 1992, with the aim of reducing energy consumption and protecting the environment. 

Energy Star-certified products, such as appliances, electronics, and buildings, are designed to use less energy, save money, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In fact, Energy Star-certified products are estimated to save consumers and businesses over $500 billion on their energy bills since the program's inception in 1992.

If you want to learn more about the Energy Star label, you can read my article, The Ultimate Guide to Energy Star Labels: What You Need to Know.

9. Plant Trees

Planting trees is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also plays a crucial role in our environment and ecosystem. 

Trees are vital for numerous reasons:

• Absorb carbon dioxide (reduce levels of greenhouse gases)

• Provide oxygen

• Help prevent water runoff (reduces risks of floods)

• Act as natural water filters (removes contaminants)

• Helps replenish groundwater supplies

• Help maintain soil health

Plant a tree: The most direct way to support tree planting is by planting one yourself. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a small balcony, you can choose a suitable tree species and nurture it to maturity.

Support local tree planting initiatives: Many communities and organizations organize tree planting events. 

Donate to tree planting organizations: Numerous non-profit organizations are dedicated to reforestation efforts. Donating to these organizations (e.g. Trillion Tree Campaign and One Tree Planted) provides them with the necessary resources to plant and maintain trees on a large scale.

10. Support Local Farmers

One of the main advantages of buying from local farmers is the quality and freshness of the produce. 

Local farmers have the ability to harvest their crops at peak ripeness, which guarantees superior flavor and nutritional value. 

Moreover, by purchasing locally grown food, we also reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. 

Furthermore, supporting local farmers tends to encourage the use of sustainable agricultural practices. 

Many small-scale farmers prioritize organic and regenerative farming methods that promote soil health, minimize the use of synthetic inputs, and preserve water resources. 

11. Eat Less Meat

Cows and other farm animals are estimated to produce around 14 percent of human-induced climate emissions.  

Over 70 billion land animals are raised and killed every year for food.

You may have heard people joke about how cow farts are causing global warming.

Unfortunately, this joke has some truth to it.

Cows, sheep, and other farm animals emit significant amounts of methane gas when they belch, a byproduct of their ruminant digestive system, in a process called enteric fermentation. 

Methane is released into the atmosphere from these belches (and also from dairy and hog manure).

Methane gas is one of the most potent greenhouse gases since it is extremely efficient at trapping heat.  

For comparison, it is 28 times more powerful than carbon dioxide gas.

Reducing meat consumption helps to decrease the carbon emissions associated with transport and livestock farming.

While it is impractical for everyone to stop eating meat, I think most people can afford to eat less meat.  

I recommend trying “Meatless Mondays,” which means not eating any meat on Mondays.  

While trying “Meatless Mondays,” you may enjoy exploring various delicious and healthy meatless recipes.

To learn more about how eating less meat is more sustainable you can read my article, 5 Compelling Reasons You Should Consider Consuming Less Meat 

12. Choose Organic Food

While shopping at your favorite grocery store, you may have seen the USDA Organic Certification seal on certain products.

When a product carries the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Organic seal, it means that the entire production process has met specific and rigorous standards. 

For instance, organic farmers must use natural fertilizers, such as compost and animal manure, to nourish the soil instead of relying on chemical fertilizers. 

Additionally, synthetic pesticides are strictly prohibited, and farmers must instead rely on natural pest control methods like beneficial insects and crop rotation.

These practices are sustainable because they promote the health of the soil, protect water quality, and reduce pollution.

To learn more about organic products, you can read my articles, USDA Organic Certification: A Complete Guide for Consumers and What is the Difference Between Organic and Sustainable?

13. Compost Food Scraps

Composting food scraps is a simple yet powerful way to reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Composting offers a practical solution that not only diverts organic waste from landfills but also creates a valuable resource for enriching the soil and promoting plant growth.

By turning our food scraps into nutrient-rich compost, we can close the loop on the food cycle and reduce our ecological footprint.

Many people are intimidated by the idea of composting, thinking that it requires a lot of time, space, or effort. 

However, composting food scraps can be as simple as collecting your kitchen scraps in a bin and letting nature do the rest.

When it comes to composting food scraps, there are plenty of items that can be added to your compost bin to help create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Some common food scraps that can be composted include fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, and bread crusts. 

For a good list of what can and can’t be composted, you can visit this site, here.

14. Reduce Food Waste

The National Resource Defense Council (NRDC) estimates that up to 40% of the food in the United States is never eaten! 

In other words, imagine purchasing five bags of groceries and immediately throwing away two.

One of the most effective strategies to reducing food waste is to plan meals carefully and shop wisely to avoid overbuying perishable items that may go to waste. 

Meal prepping (act of preparing meals or meal components ahead of time) has helped me plan out my meals for the week and eat more healthy.

In the United States alone, it is estimated that $218 billion is spent annually on food that is ultimately wasted.

By creating shopping lists, meal plans, and utilizing leftovers creatively, individuals can save money and minimize the amount of food that ends up in the trash.

15. Shop Second-hand

Shopping second-hand is not only budget-friendly but also a sustainable choice that can have a positive impact on the environment.

By purchasing second-hand or “pre-loved” items, you are reducing the demand for new products, which in turn helps in reducing the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transportation. 

This means that fewer resources are being consumed and less waste is being generated.

Additionally, buying pre-loved items also extends the lifespan of products that might otherwise end up in landfills, contributing to our growing waste problem.

To learn more about thrift shops and second-hand items, you can read my article, Thrift Shops and Second-Hand: Embracing the Power of Pre-Loved Goods

16. Mend and Repair Items

In a world where fast fashion and disposable products are the norm, it's more important than ever to embrace the concept of mending and repairing items.

By taking the time to mend a torn piece of clothing or fix a broken household item, we can extend the life of our belongings. 

Not only does this practice help us save money in the long run, but it also reduces our environmental impact by keeping items out of landfills.

I have found that there is a certain satisfaction that comes from successfully mending an item and giving it a new lease on life.

Whether it's sewing up a hole in a favorite sweater or fixing a broken chair leg, the act of repairing something can be both rewarding and empowering.

In Japan, repairing items is actually a beautiful and amazing art-form.

When I visited Japan, I learned about Kintsugi or Kintsukuroi, the centuries-old Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with special tree sap lacquer dusted with powdered gold, silver, or platinum rather than camouflaged adhesive.  

“This unique method celebrates each artifact's unique history by emphasizing its fractures and breaks instead of hiding or disguising them. 

In fact, kintsugi often makes the repaired piece even more beautiful than the original, revitalizing it with a new look and giving it a second life.” -  Kelly Richman-Abdou

17. Avoid Single-use Plastics

Single-use plastics have become a common part of our daily lives, from plastic bags and water bottles to straws and food packaging.

However, the convenience that these items offer comes at a significant cost to our environment.

One of the biggest issues with single-use plastics is their inability to biodegrade.

Instead of breaking down over time, these items persist in the environment, accumulating in landfills, rivers, and oceans.

I remember first learning about the Pacific Garbage Patch in my high school AP Environmental Science class.

The Pacific Garbage Patch is a vast area of the North Pacific Ocean where marine debris, mostly consisting of plastic, accumulates due to ocean currents. 

This floating mass of trash is estimated to be as large as twice the size of Texas and is a grim reminder of the consequences of plastic pollution.

The patch is not a solid mass of garbage, but rather a diffuse area with high concentrations of debris, primarily made up of plastic bottles, bags, and other single-use items. 

These items are often mistaken for food by marine animals, leading to ingestion and entanglement, ultimately harming the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. 

The Pacific Garbage Patch is just one of five major oceanic garbage patches, with the others located in the Atlantic, Indian, and Southern Oceans.

We can help solve this problem by using reusable alternatives such as reusable water bottles and reusable shopping bags.  

When it comes to food storage, I personally use reusable silicone bags and glass containers instead of plastic sandwich bags.

People are also using reusable beeswax wraps to store their food.  

If you want to learn more about beeswax wrap, you can read my article, The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Bee's Wrap: Benefits and Uses.

Shop Blueland Products! Revolutionary, plastic-free home essentials made to refill forever!

18. Use Eco-friendly Cleaning Products

Traditional cleaning products are often filled with harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both our health and the environment.

These chemicals can linger in the air we breathe, seep into our waterways, and contribute to pollution of our environment.

By switching to eco-friendly cleaning products, we can reduce our exposure to toxic chemicals, protect our planet, and create a healthier home for ourselves and our families.

Eco-friendly cleaning products are made with natural, plant-based ingredients that are biodegradable and non-toxic. 

They are free from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and other harmful additives that can irritate our skin, eyes, and respiratory systems.

Reading the labels carefully can help you avoid products that may be harmful to both your health and the environment.

Avoid products with harmful chemicals such as phthalates, parabens, and chlorine. 

Some people have been creating their own cleaning products.

Making your own cleaning products at home is not only cost-effective but also helps reduce harmful chemicals in your living space.

By using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and essential oils, you can create effective cleaning solutions that are safe for both your family and the planet. 

For example, a simple mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean windows and mirrors, while baking soda can tackle tough stains in sinks and tubs.

You can find great DIY natural cleaner recipes on Martha Stewarts website, here.

19. Volunteer for Environmental Causes

Are you passionate about protecting the planet and making a positive impact on the environment? 

If so, volunteering for environmental causes could be the perfect way for you to contribute to a more sustainable future.

By volunteering your time and energy, you’ll be making a tangible difference in the world, but you'll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for the environment.

Whether you're interested in planting trees, cleaning up litter, or advocating for renewable energy initiatives, there are endless opportunities to make a positive impact through volunteering. 

Protecting our oceans has always been a concern and passion for me.  I enjoy volunteering at beach cleanups and removing plastic and other waste that would otherwise end up in the ocean.

By donating your time and skills to environmental organizations and projects, you can help address pressing environmental issues.

20. Support Sustainable Brands

I believe that we vote through what we buy.  

Every dollar that we spend is essentially a vote cast in support of a company and its practices, policies, and mission. 

As consumers, we hold immense power and can “vote” or support sustainable companies by purchasing their products.

I personally love supporting B corporations.  

B Corporations, also known as Benefit Corporations, are a unique business entity that prioritizes social and environmental impact alongside profit. 

Unlike traditional corporations, which are legally bound to prioritize shareholder interests, B Corporations have a legal mandate to consider the interests of employees, suppliers, customers, society, and the environment. 

If you want to learn more about B corporations, you can read my article, What are B Corporations?  Why Companies are becoming B Corps?

21. Reduce Paper Usage

One simple yet powerful way to contribute to a more sustainable future is by reducing our paper usage.

Paper production is a resource-intensive process that not only leads to deforestation but also contributes to water and air pollution.

By cutting back on our paper consumption, we can help protect our planet's trees and reduce our carbon footprint.

Whether it's opting for electronic bills and statements, using recycled paper products, or printing double-sided whenever possible, every small step counts.

One way that I have recently started doing to reduce my paper usage is reading e-books. 

Instead of purchasing physical books, I now purchase digital copies that I can easily access on my kindle. 

Additionally, since I travel frequently to my hometown to visit friends and family, I have also started to listen to audio books while I drive. 

This allows me to continue enjoying books even when I'm on the go, without the need for physical paper copies.

When you do end up using paper, make sure to recycle it properly. 

Set up recycling bins at home and in the office to collect used paper, envelopes, and cardboard. 

You can also reuse paper for note-taking, grocery lists, and crafts before ultimately recycling it.

22. Use Public Transportation

Many people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle. 

One of the most effective ways to do this is by using public transportation instead of driving a car.

Public transportation is not only more energy-efficient, but it also helps to reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. 

By choosing to take the bus, train, or subway instead of driving a car, individuals can significantly lower their personal carbon emissions.

Public transportation can also lead to significant cost savings for individuals and households. 

The expenses associated with owning and maintaining a car, including gas, insurance, parking, and maintenance, can add up quickly.

23. Bike or Walk Instead of Driving

Similar to taking public transportation, biking or walking instead of driving helps to reduce emissions and air pollution, but with an added bonus of promoting a healthier lifestyle.  

I recently moved to a new place that is only a couple minutes drive away from my work.

I can now get a quick 15-minute walk to and from work and also save a considerable amount of money on gas.

Now I know most people probably don’t live a couple of minutes away from work, but everyone probably has several close places that you could walk or bike to.

For example, at my old place, I would frequently walk to the gym and nearby convenience store.  

24. Embrace Minimalism

In a world plagued by excessive consumerism and overconsumption, a minimalist lifestyle can have numerous positive effects on the planet. 

One of the key principles of minimalism is to prioritize quality over quantity. 

By choosing to invest in well-made, long-lasting products rather than constantly buying cheap, disposable items, we can reduce our overall consumption and minimize our environmental footprint. 

This approach not only saves money in the long run but also helps to decrease the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Minimalism encourages us to be more mindful of our purchases and make more conscious decisions about the products we buy.

By adopting a "less is more" mentality, we can avoid falling into the trap of mindless shopping and impulse buying.

Instead, we can take the time to consider the environmental and ethical implications of our purchases, supporting companies, like B Corporations, that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. 

By being more intentional about what we bring into our lives, we can reduce our environmental impact and support a more sustainable economy.

To learn more about how we can live a minimalist lifestyle, you can read my article, Minimalism 101: The Ultimate Guide to a Sustainable and Minimalist Lifestyle.

25. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Our carbon footprint refers to the amount of greenhouse gases, specifically carbon dioxide, that are emitted into the atmosphere as a result of our daily activities. 

These greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to a rise in global temperatures and causing detrimental effects on our environment, such as more frequent and severe natural disasters, rising sea levels, and loss of biodiversity.

So, in what ways can we reduce our carbon footprint?  Stop me if you have heard of these before.

One of the most effective ways to reduce our carbon footprint is by using energy more efficiently.

This can be achieved by switching to energy-saving light bulbs, turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use, and using programmable thermostats to control heating and cooling.

Another way to lessen our carbon footprint is by reducing our reliance on cars and using more eco-friendly modes of transportation such as walking, biking, or using public transportation.

Reducing waste and recycling can also play a key role in diminishing our carbon footprint.

If you would like to learn more about our carbon footprint, you can read my article, Carbon Footprint: Understanding the Environmental Impact of our Actions.

26. Avoid Fast Fashion and Promote Slow Fashion

Fast fashion has been designed to make you feel “out of trend” after a couple of weeks, prompting you to continue buying more and more clothes.  

This leads to consumers spending more money and more waste.

The fashion industry is notorious for its significant contribution to global pollution.

From the cultivation of raw materials to the manufacturing and transportation processes, each stage of the fast fashion supply chain leaves behind a trail of environmental destruction.

One of the most effective solutions to stopping fast fashion is to keep your old clothes and promote slow fashion.

Slow fashion focuses on quality over quantity, emphasizing durable and timeless pieces that are made to last.

By investing in high-quality garments, consumers can reduce their need for constant replacement and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.

Another solution is to encourage clothing recycling and upcycling. Instead of throwing away old or unwanted garments, consumers can donate them to charity organizations or participate in clothing swaps.

This not only helps reduce textile waste but also gives new life to old clothes.

Upcycling is another creative way to transform and repurpose old clothes into new and unique pieces, reducing the demand for new clothing and minimizing waste.

If you would like to learn more about fast fashion, you can read my article, What is Fast Fashion? And Why Is It A Problem?

27. Practice Eco-friendly Gardening

By incorporating eco-friendly practices into your gardening routine, you can not only help protect the planet but also create a beautiful and thriving garden that benefits both you and the local ecosystem.

Instead of using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which can have a harmful effect on soil health and wildlife, use natural alternatives such as compost, mulch, and beneficial insects.

You can learn about beneficial insects and how to attract them in this article, 22 Beneficial Insects To Protect Your Garden and How to Attract Them

Additionally, choosing native plants that are well-suited to your region's climate and soil conditions can help reduce the need for chemical inputs and water, while also providing important habitats for local wildlife.

If you would like to learn more about how to create an eco-friendly garden, you can read my article, 7 Essential Tips for Creating an Eco-Friendly Garden

28. Support Local and Sustainable Fishing Practices

Overfishing is one of the biggest problems that our oceans are facing.

Many fish populations around the world are already depleted due to years of unsustainable fishing practices.

By choosing to only consume seafood that is caught or farmed in a sustainable way, we can help prevent further depletion of these populations and give them a chance to recover. 

This is essential for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems and preserving biodiversity.

Sustainable seafood refers to fish and other seafood products that are caught or farmed using methods that support the long-term health and stability of marine environments.

When shopping for seafood, look for eco-certifications such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) to ensure that you are making a sustainable choice.

If you would like to learn more about these certifications and sustainable seafood, you can read my article, How to Find Sustainably Sourced Seafood

29.  Participate in Recycling Programs

Participating in recycling programs is a simple yet powerful way for us to reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and minimize our carbon footprint.

By making a conscious effort to recycle materials like paper, plastics, glass, and electronics, we can significantly lessen the strain on our environment

Recycling materials instead of sending them to landfill can help to conserve valuable resources such as trees, water, and energy.

For example, recycling just one ton of paper can save up to 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water.

Getting involved in recycling programs is easier than you may think. 

Many cities and towns offer curbside recycling services or have drop-off locations where residents can recycle a wide range of materials.

By taking the time to sort and recycle materials correctly, we can ensure that our efforts are making a positive impact on the environment.

30. Encourage local government to implement green initiatives

One of the most effective ways to make a meaningful impact on sustainability is by advocating for policy change that supports environmentally friendly practices. 

Advocating for policy change can take many forms, from signing petitions and writing letters to elected officials, to joining advocacy groups and participating in rallies and protests. 

By using your voice and your platform to raise awareness and push for policy change, you can help create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

31.  Be An Advocate For Sustainable Living

Advocating for sustainable living means promoting practices that minimize our negative impact on the environment and strive to create a more harmonious relationship with nature.

Being an advocate for sustainable living means embodying the values and principles you promote. 

It's not enough to simply talk about the importance of reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting eco-friendly practices – you must also actively demonstrate these behaviors in your own life.

I have found that leading by example is a powerful way to inspire others to take action and make positive changes for the environment.

Remember, actions speak louder than words – so lead by example and inspire others to join you on the journey towards a more sustainable future.

32. Educate yourself

Learning about sustainability has been a never-ending journey for me.  I am still constantly learning new things.

Taking the time to learn about the environmental impact of your daily choices, such as the products you use, the food you eat, and the transportation you rely on is a great and important start. 

By understanding the consequences of these choices, you can begin to make more informed decisions that align with your values of sustainability.

I hope that this article has been educational and helpful in your journey towards sustainability.