One easy way to save money in an environmentally-friendly way is to turn off lights and electronics when you leave a room. This simple habit can save you up to 10% on your electric bill each month. Unplug electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, and laptops which draw power even when idle or in sleep mode.

Another tip is to wash clothes in cold water instead of hot. About 90% of the energy used in a washing machine goes to heating the water. Using the cold cycle can save up to $40 per year for most households. Your clothes will still get clean in cold water, it will just take a bit longer. Switch your dishwasher to the air-dry setting instead of using the heated drying cycle. This can cut your dishwasher’s energy usage by up to 50% per load.

Recycle and compost as much as possible. Many cities and towns offer free recycling and compost pickup. Recycling common items like paper, plastic, and glass can save natural resources and reduce pollution. Composting food scraps and yard waste reduces the amount of trash sent to landfills and produces free, organic fertilizer for your garden.

Use reusable bags when shopping instead of plastic bags. Plastic bags are made from oil, a nonrenewable resource, and they pollute the environment. Many stores offer small discounts or rewards for bringing your own bags. Reusable bags also make it easier to carry in multiple items at once.

Consider using a programmable thermostat to more efficiently control the temperature in your home. Lowering the heat by just a few degrees in winter or raising the AC by a few degrees in summer can save up to 10% on your heating and cooling costs each year. Program the thermostat to lower temperatures at night or when you are away from home.