These days almost everyone is feeling the pinch in their wallets. Why not use this as an incentive to become more green? Not only will you be doing well for the earth, but you’ll also be keeping more green in your wallet. Here are some ideas to help you get started. We’ll start with things most of you have already heard, but sometimes I think it helps to be reminded of them.

Go green at home and save on your bills.
• Take shorter showers.
• Unplug unused electronics such as cell phone or laptop chargers. These 'vampires' still use energy even if they are not plugged into what they charge.
• Remember to turn off the light when leaving the room.
• Dry your clothes on a clothesline.

Save on gas.
• Walk, bike or take public transportation.
• Run multiple errands on one trip.
• Keep your tires inflated properly.

Instead of buying new movies or going out to the theatre, why not exchange one of the movies you have sitting around that you never watch? Swaptree is a great website where you can trade not only movies, but books and CDs as well. List what you have, list what you want and Swaptree alerts you when a trade is available. You can also see all the items you can get with the things you are offering to trade.

Eating out can add up. If you eat out on a regular basis, try cooking at home more often. Browse recipes sites like All Recipes or Epicurious for great recipes. If you need some inspiration (or just want to see some gorgeous photos of food) visit Tastespotting. If you aren’t used to cooking or don’t enjoy it, start simple with recipes that have a small ingredient list. And websites like All Recipes and Epicurious allow you to browse recipes by a “quick & easy” category.

Consider getting things fixed before throwing them out and buying a new replacement. The other day I broke off part of the heel of my shoe. Originally I was upset because I thought I would have to get rid of the shoe and buy a new pair. But I quickly remembered a shoe repair business close by and took my shoes there. After spending less than ten dollars, my heel was as good as new. Unfortunately, these days many items are not meant to be fixed and their intended lifespan is very short. Buy with lifespan in mind. Sometimes buying something that is cheap ends up costing you more money when you have to replace it when it breaks. Spending a bit more for quality-made items that will last a long time will save you in the long run.

The holiday season is creeping up. It’s not too early to start thinking about your holiday shopping list now. With some friends or family, you may be able to convince them not to buy you and your family gifts and instead exchange babysitting duties so that each couple can have a date night. You kill two birds with one stone by not having to purchase a gift and getting a free babysitter!

Please share any green ideas you have that have saved you money!