So you want to help save the earth, but you ask, “What's in it for me?” Well, apart from a cleaner, healthier planet to live on (not a small thing in itself), you can put some extra cash in your bank account!

Take your local trip to the supermarket for example:

A family of four can save $3,000 a year simply by buying products in the largest size they can, and by buying long lasting reusable items.

Did you know that ten cents of every shopping dollar is used to pay for packaging? Small sizes use more packaging for each ounce of product than larger sizes. So, buy as big as you can – you save money, reduce waste, and help the environment. A family of four can save $2,000 a year by choosing large sizes instead of individual serving sizes.

Chalk up another $1,000 to you by buying reusable and long lasting products.

Products that can be reused are cheaper in the long run than those you throw away and buy over and over again; and those that are designed to last a long time are also cheaper in the long run than those that wear out quickly.

• Use rechargeable batteries: you can save $200 a year in one CD player played two hours a day.
• Use cloth diapers: you can save $600 per child using a laundry diaper service instead of disposable diapers.
• Use a real camera instead of a disposable one: take 24 pictures each month and you’ll save $144 each year.
• Switch to cloth napkins, sponges, and cloth towels. Many families spend over $260 each year on paper towels and napkins.

And remember to be kind to our planet just for the sake of loving it.

Try a washable commuter mug for your morning coffee and eliminate Styrofoam or plastic cups every day.

Use washable plates, cups, and silverware for parties and picnics instead of disposable products.

And when you do that family shopping, familiarize yourself with items that can be recycled in your local recycling program; then take a little time to look for products in recyclable containers.

As always, remember to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle!

Info provided courtesy of our friends at earth911.org. Visit their site for more green tips.