Here are my top 5 free ways to go green! These are the top 5 free ways that I feel will help the environment the most. While these actions don’t seem like they would have much of an impact, doing these 5 things can make a huge difference if everyone did at least one of them. Make sure to check out my other posts for the Top 15 Free Ways to Go Green (6-10) and Top 15 Free Ways to Go Green (11-15) free ways to go green.

5 – Recycle

Do you have a bunch of plastic bottles, cardboard boxes, or old paper you just throw away every week? Well, those things are just going to a landfill where they take up space and cannot be used for anything. If your town has a recycling program, join it. This way they can reuse your waste to create new products and not have to use as many natural resources. If your town doesn’t have a recycling program, try to start one yourself.

4 – Carpool

If you live near a co-worker, take turns driving each other to work. You could switch driving every day or every week. This takes a vehicle off the road, which decreases the amount of greenhouse gases released and the amount of traffic on the road. You will be cutting the time you drive your car in half, which will save you money on gas and maintenance for your car!

3 – Ride a Bicycle or Walk

If you need to go to the store down the road, hope on a bike instead of getting into your car. By riding your bike (or just walking), you will be saving money on gas while also getting a good workout. It also doesn’t hurt that you won’t be producing any greenhouse gases.

2 – Unplug Electronics

Did you know that even when you are not using an electronic device it still uses electricity if its plugged in? It’s true and this wasted energy is known as vampire energy because it sucks your money away. Check out this Vampire Energy Chart created by GOOD Magazine. It shows how much vampire energy costs the average homeowner per year. By unplugging these devices, you could end up saving a descent amount of money.

1 – Use Natural Lighting

If it’s a sunny day outside, open your curtains and blinds to let the sunlight in. The room will most likely be bright enough that you won’t have to turn on any lights, which saves you money on your electrical bill. This will also increase the life of your light bulbs since they won’t be on as long as usual.  Also, the sunlight will help relax you and put you in a better mood!