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Save a Little Green
Age-Old Tips for Cutting Costs and Carbon Footprints
By Brian Clark Howard Link to full article below

The economic dark cloud persists, affecting banks, mortgage companies and pension plans, and consumer confidence is only just beginning to improve. The latest figures put U.S. consumer confidence at 84 on the Nielsen Global Consumer Confidence Survey, up 4 points from a July survey, but still low. With retirement savings in jeopardy, banks fearful to give loans and employers tightening belts and laying off workers, it’s essential that we all start saving.

Fortunately, money-saving tips are frequently planet-saving tips, as smart conservation, wise stewardship of resources and future planning work together. Some of these tips may at first seem like putting the proverbial band-aid on the gaping wound—but remember that California's serious blackout crisis of 2000 and 2001 was largely solved (and in short time) by individuals and businesses ramping up energy conservation, not by bailout packages or government maneuvering.

Also, if you talk to folks who weathered the Great Depression, they'll tell you that they got through it primarily by saving pennies, growing their own food and stretching what they already had.

It can seem overwhelming, but we're here to help you get started.

1. Spend Less on Gas

Yes, it's true that gas prices have fallen somewhat with the rest of the economy, but they remain much higher than in years past. One of the most immediate ways to reduce your bills is to drive less. Sound too easy? Consider starting a local carpool with your friends, neighbors or coworkers. Combine errands and walk around town.

Take extra junk out of your trunk and unused racks off your roof. Drive the speed limit, use cruise control, keep tires inflated and forget jackrabbit starts. Don't idle your savings away. Take public transit when possible, and maybe you can eliminate a whole set of wheels in your family—leading to big-time savings.

To read the other tips and full article: http://www.emagazine.com/view/?4919