One of the most common excuses we hear people give for not utilizing the plethora of “green” alternatives available to them is that being eco-friendly is too expensive. Well here at Greenvelope, we think otherwise.

Whether you’re a college student cutting coupons or a 20-something just starting your first job, going green on a budget is not just possible, it’s profitable. Check out these ways that choosing green alternatives can actually help to save you money:

  • Reusable Bags – If you bring your own reusable bags, most retail and grocery stores offer 5-15 cent discounts per each bag used. You can buy inexpensive reusable bags in a variety of colors, sizes, or styles, nearly anywhere. Or, if you’re not trying to splurge and buy new bags, save the ones they give you at stores like Lululemon, Free People, or Lord and Taylor.
  • Don’t Drive – Whether you walk, catch a ride with a friend, take the bus, or ride your bike, your skateboard, or your razor scooter, you can save thousands of dollars in gas (and get fit while you’re at it) by choosing greener modes of transportation. The average bus rider saves approximately $1,300 per year by busing, rather than driving, to work each day.
  • Digital Subscriptions – Rather than ordering newspapers and magazines to your home address, subscribe online! Not only will you save pounds of paper, but you will also enjoy saving up to 25% in subscription/delivery fees.
  • Turn it Off – By turning off lights when you leave the room, turning down the air conditioning and heating at home, and unplugging electronics that aren’t in use, you can significantly cut down your energy bills. Additionally, energy efficient light bulbs use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than normal traditional incandescent bulbs, saving you big bucks in the long run.
  • Water Bottles and Coffee Tumblers – You already have a million of them stuffed in that one drawer in your kitchen, so why not stash some in your car? That way you can save money and receive 10 cent discounts on your coffee at Starbucks.
  • Free Entertainment – Yes, I said free. You may not realize it, but there are tons of free things to do outside that will save you money and get you a nice tan while you’re at it (hiking, swimming, sunbathing, waterskiing, picnicking, camping, bird-watching, and rock-climbing just to name a few). This summer, save money on restaurants, movie tickets, and concerts and take to the great outdoors.
  • Online Invitations – Rather than sending out print mailings, you can save paper and spend less on postage with our wide variety of customizable digital stationary. Perfect for any event, Greenvelope helps you to reduce your eco-footprint while also saving you time and money.