Our latest One in a Million member is Nancy, an Episcopal priest and practicing psychologist who lives in central New York state. The One in a Million campaign encourages people to shift $1,000 of their household budget to greener products and services. I was amazed to learn that Nancy shifted so much she actually saved more than $10,000 without feeling deprived. Here's her story.
1. Plant an Edible Garden and Watch Your Savings Grow
Edible gardens are an enjoyable and economical form of gardening. By growing your own vegetables and herbs, you’ll save money while encouraging your family to eat healthier throughout the summer and early fall. Regardless of your yard size, you can include a raised vegetable bed for minimal cost and effort. Convenient, ready-to-assemble kits from The Home Depot make it easy. Create your own edible garden now to get a head start on the growing season, then watch your homegrown bounty flourish.
The steep prices on some eco cleaners and organic sheets can make green living seem like a luxury few can afford. But if you consider the surprising range of household items that contain dangerous toxins—which scientists say could lead to allergic reactions, thyroid disorders, even cancer—going green starts to sound as much a health priority as an environmental one.