How We Save Money and Help the Planet

Big, complex goals can often appear daunting. However, by incorporating the right habits into your life, those big goals can feel more achievable. For instance, saving money while helping the planet are both lofty, important goals. But by adopting some good habits, you can make incremental progress with ease.

For Growth Savings customers, a few simple habits are making a real difference, both for their bank accounts and for the environment. In our recent survey, customers told us the actions they take to help both their wallets and the planet.

^{Question: Which of the following practices, if any, do you take part in to help both your wallet and the environment? Select all that apply.}

About 30% of Growth Savings customers toss their food scraps into compost bins instead of the trash. While it may sound like a small act, composting can keep waste out of landfills and turn it into something useful for gardens. Plus, it’s a great way to cut down on garbage bags and maybe even save a little on trash pickup.

Nearly 8 out of 10 respondents (78%) are using things like refillable water bottles and reusable grocery bags. That’s a huge step toward cutting out single-use plastics. And who doesn’t love a sturdy tote bag that doesn’t rip halfway to the car? Over time, these little swaps save money too – no more buying packs of bottled water or endless plastic bags.

Another easy win is simply turning the thermostat down (or up!) More than seven in ten Growth Savings customers (71%) are getting smart about heating and cooling. Maybe it’s turning the heat down a notch in winter or letting the house get a little warmer in summer. These tweaks can make an impact both on your utilities and the environment.

Almost half (48%) of respondents to our survey shop at thrift stores or purchase used items online. It’s a great way to find unique stuff, save money, and keep perfectly good things out of the landfill. Whether it’s clothes, furniture, or gadgets, secondhand shopping is a win-win that can help save you money by spending less compared to new purchases.

Cutting back on waste is another popular habit, with 68% of customers working to reduce their overall intake. That could mean planning meals more efficiently to avoid tossing out food, fixing things instead of replacing them, or just being more mindful about what comes into your home. Less waste means less money spent and less trash to throw away in the end.

The best part about all these habits is how they work together. Using reusable bags and bottles means less waste and less money spent on disposable items. Buying secondhand keeps things in use longer and saves cash. It’s all about taking small actions that are good for you and good for the planet, all of which add up over time.

Growth Savings customers make it clear that you don’t have to make huge sacrifices to have a big impact. In fact, a lot of these changes are simple, and they pay off in more ways than one. Every little bit helps, and together, those small changes can make a big difference.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information and education only. It should not be considered financial or tax advice.