Green Living

6 Easy Ways to Stop Wasting Plastic

Rachel Slifka — Fri, 06 Jul 2018 08:00:09 +0000

We all know plastic is bad for the environment, but exactly how terrible is it? According to the organization Plastic Oceans, the world population is producing nearly 300 million tons of plastic every year. Half of which is for single use. And to make matters worse, every year more than 8 million tons of plastic is dumped into the ocean.

Ouch.

Even if you're not ready to ban plastic entirely, there are many easy life changes you can make to help save our planet. They might seem like small steps, but they go a long way in helping to reduce plastic waste and protecting sea life. Here are six easy ways to cut back on plastic. (See also: 8 Things We Keep Buying That Are Killing the Planet)

1. Ban plastic bags

Many cities are banning plastic bags entirely, and for good reason. According to the EPA, Americans use over 380 billion plastic bags and wraps each year. Most of these bags are used one time and then promptly thrown out, creating an incredible amount of waste.

Fortunately, there are plenty of eco-friendly alternatives. You can bring your own reusable, canvas tote bags to the grocery store. Most grocery stores sell canvas bags for just a dollar or two, and you can use them for years before they need to be replaced. (See also: 10 Things You Already Own That Can Be Turned Into a Tote Bag)

2. Shop secondhand

Items such as toys, electronics, and even clothes require enormous amounts of plastic to package and distribute. Often, these items are used for a few years and then no longer needed and improperly disposed of. You can reduce plastic waste by purchasing many of these items secondhand.

To find the best deals on these items, scour stores such as Goodwill, eBay, and local consignment shops. You can also shop online using digital thrift store apps like Poshmark, Tradesy, ThredUp, OfferUp, and even Facebook Marketplace. By purchasing used items, you're helping the environment, and you can save some money as well. (See also: 8 Things You Should Always Buy Used)

3. Rethink your groceries

Everyone needs to buy groceries, but food often requires a lot of plastic packaging. Particularly, single-serve and pre-cut foods, such as individual yogurts, cheeses, fruit, veggies, and other snacks, use more packaging than if you bought these same ingredients in bulk and divided them up into snack-size portions yourself.

You can combat the excessive packaging dilemma by purchasing unpackaged produce, buying in bulk, and looking for plastic packaging alternatives, such as glass jars. (See also: 10 Things You Didn't Know You Could Buy in Bulk)

4. Transition to reusable products

The age of convenience creates a lot of extra waste. Think about how many to-go coffee cups, plastic straws, and disposable cutlery are thrown out at the end of each week. In fact, according to the National Park Service, over 500 million straws are used each day. That's enough to fill 125 school buses each day!

You can help to lessen the blow by switching to reusable products. For instance, you can switch to a reusable water bottle instead of drinking individual bottles of water. Stainless steel, silicone, and glass straws are becoming quite trendy — or you could skip the straw entirely.

For coffee, purchase a travel mug. Not only does a reusable mug help the environment, but it can keep your coffee warmer for longer. As an additional bonus, many coffee shops will give you a small discount if you bring in your own reusable mug. (See also: The 5 Best Reusable Straws)

5. Switch your toothpaste

Who knew your toothpaste could contain plastic? Disturbingly enough, microbeads are simply small pieces of plastic, and they're commonly found in toothpaste, body wash, and facial cleansers.

Every time you use a product containing microbeads, plastic is being washed down the drain. Fortunately, the Food and Drug Administration created new regulations that prohibit the use of microbeads in such products. Some products are already banned under the FDA's timeline, but certain products are not set to be pulled from the market entirely until 2019.

To be safe, check each product to ensure it does not contain microbeads. If you have some old cosmetics lying around, don't forget to check those, too.

6. Recycle

No matter how conscious you are at avoiding plastic, no one is perfect. Sometimes, it is simply unavoidable. That being said, the worst thing you can do is simply throw out your plastic. By recycling, you can prevent plastic from ending up in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose.

Every city has different recycling requirements, so look up your city regulations before recycling. Sites like Recycle By City, or your town's website, guide you through city requirements, so you can ensure you are recycling properly. (See also: 18 Clever Ways to Reuse Your Plastic Shopping Bags)

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This article is from Rachel Slifka of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Eco-Friendly Ways to Travel

Amy Lu — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 08:30:26 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on eco-friendly ways to travel, pitfalls to watch for if you’re 65 and still working, and practical minimalist tips for beginners.

How to Save Big on Indoor and Outdoor Greenery

Mikey Rox — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 09:30:21 +0000

Indoor and outdoor greenery make a home feel homey, but plants, even fake ones, can put a sizable dent in your decorating budget. Add a little life without subtracting too much from your cash stash with these money-saving tips. (See also: 6 Surprising Ways a Houseplant Can Save You Money)

DIY air plants

I recently visited a nursery where air plants in seashells were being sold for $13 a pop — an outrageous price point if you're familiar with what each of those items cost separately. Air plants alone retail for less than $4 on Amazon, and seashells are free if you pick them up on a relaxing walk along the shore. Air plants don't require soil to grow, but they still need water, sunlight, and TLC. You can buy a pack of them and give them all the care they need for under $10. (See also: 9 No-Fuss Plants That Will Brighten Your Home Until Spring)

Reuse food and decorative jars as planters

Instead of tossing my used candle jars in the trash or recycling bins, I clean out the leftover wax residue by setting the jars in boiling water for about a minute and then wiping out the excess before hitting it with soap and warm water. The more decorative candle jars make excellent planters.

You also can use old food jars as planters, and I highly recommend the new Oui by Yoplait yogurt jars as mini planters. I love these small jars because they don't have lids but rather foil coverings, which eliminates the need for grooves at the top of the jar. In my opinion, they don't look as cheap as regular jars when used as planters.

Also, be advised that some plants don't like to sit in too much water, so keep that in mind if your planters don't have holes on the bottom to provide drainage.

Repurpose deep dishes and wooden boxes

Before you send your old dishes and wooden boxes to the trash or local donation center, look at them as potential planters. For instance, I have a couple deep, high-sided modern dishes from CB2 that I've chipped and don't want to use for entertaining anymore, so I turned them into planters. I keep the chipped edge to the back so no one can see it. They look great on coffee tables and mantles.

Take a walk through the woods

Mother Nature provides us access to all her bounty, and there's no reason you can't take advantage of this by collecting seeds or identifying plant species from unrestricted wooded areas that will survive in your indoor or outdoor gardens. Dig 'em up and replant them at home — sparingly, of course. You can easily research types of plants with the help of apps or nature books.

No trespassing on private land, and don't even think about taking cuttings from protected areas, like state and national parks. That's a big no-no with even bigger fines if you get caught.

Snip from your parents' or grandparents' plants

My grandmother had this spider plant the whole family would snip from to propagate spider plant babies of their own. You can use this method to start new plants from a variety of species, as detailed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. (See also: 13 Simple Gardening Skills Anybody Can Master)

Check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Letgo

While you're out there trying to save money on plants to spruce up your joint, others are tossing theirs out.

"Looking on sites such as Craigslist and in the 'free' section local Facebook groups can sometimes land you a gorgeous house plant that could need a little love," says Vicky Popat, owner of PlantOGram.com, which delivers fully grown plants, like Cotton Candy Mango trees. "If you live in a city, sometimes you could even spot a potted, ready-to-go plant just sitting on the curb. Before bringing any of these plants home, ask or check for pests."

Shop the clearance sections

Like everything else, plants go on sale, too. Poke around your local nursery or even your local big-box hardware store to see what kinds of deals they have. Don't be afraid to ask an associate either; they may know where the discounted goods are hidden if you can't find them. If available options aren't the most beautiful of the bunch, consider if you can clean them up, or if replanting in a more decorative planter will help. Many times you can just trim off the dead parts, wipe the dirty leaves with a washcloth, and feed with plant food until the plant is happy again.

Plant herbs

Herb seeds are cheap, but full-grown herb plants (often available at your supermarket) are quite affordable, too — in the $3 to $7 range. These plants will give your space, either indoors or out, the green punch you're looking for. You'll also save money over time on buying fresh herbs since you can snip from the ones you've cultivated. (See also: 6 Decorative Plants You Can Eat, Too)

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Simple Ways to Reduce Plastic Waste

Amy Lu — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 09:30:19 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on simple ways to cut plastic waste, easy tips for organizing your basement, and the best time to buy a car.

7 Ways to Repurpose Your Old Christmas Tree

Mikey Rox — Mon, 25 Dec 2017 09:00:07 +0000

My boyfriend and I bought our Christmas tree two days after Thanksgiving in the parking lot of a grocery store. Not uncommon. The deal was attractive — just $31.99, and we could pick any tree. With a bottom trim and wrap, the total came to about $40, which was still a bargain, considering that we usually spend between $45 and $60 for a tree each year.

It was a beautiful tree. Emphasis on the was.

Less than three weeks after we erected and decorated it in our home, it was dead. And I mean, deeeeead. I heard needles dropping off sporadically, and then whole ornaments were dropping to the floor. I watered it. Plenty of water. But Mother Nature's nectar wasn't able to salvage this pine.

To remove the risk of fire, we took down the rest of ornaments and unstrung the lights, and in the process every. single. needle. fell off the tree. I've never seen anything like it. The proof is in this picture.

RIP Christmas tree. 11/25/17-12/13/17

While preparing ourselves to spend the holidays without a tree (because I was not buying a second one just to kill that, too), a friend suggested that I turn this yuletide tragedy into a crafting opportunity by spray painting the wooden carcass silver or gold and setting it back up — and what a brilliant idea that was! Instead of sending our late holiday tree to the chipper, I now have a bold, shiny, reusable reminder of the year we nearly killed Christmas. (See also: 8 Old Holiday Traditions We Can't Believe Ever Existed)

Taking a cue from this experience, here are seven other ways you can give new life to your old tree.

1. Enrich the lives of sanctuary animals

If you have any animal sanctuaries near you, call and inquire about donating your discarded tree. I recently learned that a tiger rescue org in North Carolina repurposes trees as part of their enrichment program to make the tigers feel more at home surrounded by trees, and there's an elephant sanctuary in Tennessee that uses chemical-free trees as food for the animals who each eat up to 150 pounds of plant material per day.

2. Provide habitat and resources for wild animals

If you don't have an animal sanctuary nearby, you can provide for the animals in your own backyard by putting your old tree outside to create additional habitats for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. Just toss it out there for them to climb and sit on or replant it so it stands up. You could even make a few pinecone bird feeders to hang from the branches to feed your feathered friends. It's a great way to bring beautiful winter birds like blue jays and cardinals to your yard.

You also may be able to donate your tree to your Department of Natural Resources which may sink them in bodies of water for a fish habitat, like they've done at Lake Havasu with great success.

3. Help shore towns fortify their dunes

If you live in a shore town, like I do, you recognize the importance of preserving the beaches and coastline, and one way conservationists do this is by building up the sand dunes using Christmas trees. The needled branches help catch sand from blowing winds, keeping more of it on the beach instead of blowing off it. Call your local authorities to see how you can participate in similar programs in your area. A friend of mine told me that in one area of the Jersey Shore, the dunes have become so big from the help of Christmas trees that there's a net gain of sand every year and the beach is becoming wider with each storm, instead of smaller.

4. Mulch your garden with loose needles

My garden will benefit greatly from all the needles that I'll spread in it, thanks to the abundance that I have from my defective fir. Pine needles are good as mulch because they decompose slowly to acidify the soil, which helps acid-loving plants like azaleas, hydrangeas, ferns, and dogwoods flourish.

5. Create crafting supplies

If you have a reciprocating saw or bandsaw in your garage, you can easily slice and dice the trunk into wooden rounds. These rounds make perfect canvasses for DIY craft projects, like rustic coasters. Morgan Statt, health and safety investigator at ConsumerSafety.org, recommends sealing the coaster wood before use to prevent any sap from leaking out.

You also can sell these discs on sites like eBay or Etsy. There's a pretty big market out there for recycled wood. (See also: 7 DIY Crafts That Will Save You Money)

6. Cut the trunk into discs for natural edging

If you're not into crafting, you can still use those trunk discs. Edge your garden with them to create natural and really good-looking borders. You'll find lots of photos of how to pull this off (so easy!) on Pinterest.

7. Turn the branches into DIY potpourri

If you love the smell of pine in your home during the holidays, prolong the scent by upcycling your Christmas tree branches to make potpourri. This Christmas tree potpourri recipe uses two branches, essential oils, and cinnamon sticks.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Simple Ways to Travel Greener That Could Save You Money

Nick Wharton — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 09:30:10 +0000

Travel can be an enriching way of understanding different cultures and developing an appreciation for nature’s beauty. Yet, the negative effect that travel can have on the planet is undeniable. Huge carbon emissions, vast energy consumption, and excessive water usage are all unfortunate side products of many forms of travel. But a growing number of travelers are becoming far more conscious about how their actions and choices can impact the environment.

It's been suggested that the only way to truly travel greener is to not travel at all, but that seems extreme? There are plenty of ways to reduce your carbon footprint, both large and small, that can have a positive impact on the environment. Even better, many of these strategies can actually save you money in the process.

1. Pack light

By packing light, you'll be carrying less weight, which means that if you're traveling in a vehicle, you'll use less fuel, releasing fewer emissions. The less gas you have to buy for your trip, the more money you’ll save.

When it comes to flights, by traveling with carry-on items only, you'll immediately save the costs that most airlines charge for an additional bag to be checked, and you’ll be doing your part to lighten the load that the plane has to carry. That, in turn, can reduce the plane’s fuel consumption. (See Also: 5 Ways Carry-On Luggage Can Save You Time and Money)

2. Take a reusable water bottle

Our incredible overconsumption of plastic has been deemed an environmental crisis. That certainly makes sense since a million plastic bottles are purchased every minute, and 91 percent of plastic produced is not recycled. A 2015 study found that by midcentury, we'll have more plastic in our ocean than fish, ton for ton.

Help solve the problem by carrying a reusable water bottle with you when you travel so you can avoid buying bottled water. You can also get filtered water bottles, which will allow you to drink water from virtually any source by filtering out up to 99.9 percent of harmful contaminants. As a bonus, you'll also save a small fortune on the pricey bottled water by carrying your own bottle.

3. Bike or walk

Particularly in countries where gas guzzling transport is cheap, it's easy to fall into the trap of getting taxis everywhere, or hiring a vehicle. However, by far the two greenest ways to get around are to ride a bike or walk.

Cycling and walking have zero impact on the environment, and will help keep you healthy in the process. They also cost nothing other than perhaps the cost of renting a bike, which in most places is still relatively cheap. (See also: 9 Ways Life Is Wonderful When You Swap Your Car for a Bike)

4. Make sure your home is vacation-ready

This is a vital step to take when you're heading away on vacation, and can have a significant impact on both the environment and your wallet. The most important move is to ensure your heating or cooling systems are completely off (unless the temperature is going to drop below freezing, which could lead to frozen pipes).

Something else to be aware of is that electronics like TVs, wireless routers, and kitchen appliances use a surprising amount of electricity when they're in standby mode. Because of this, it's essential to unplug as many as possible rather than just switch them off. (See also: Pay Your Bills and 5 Other Things You Must Do Before You Leave on Vacation)

5. Carry a tote bag

Carrying your own tote bag with you when you're on vacation will mean you're further reducing your plastic consumption. Whether you're picking up some groceries or doing a bit of souvenir shopping, not using plastic bags will lead to both carbon savings and less pollution.

You may be able to save money, too. In many countries and some U.S. cities and states, there is a charge for plastic bags. Though it's usually quite a small charge, over time, the price of using plastic bags can add up.

6. Harness the power of the sun

A large chunk of the earth's energy comes from the sun, so why not harness some of it to make your travels greener? Electrical gadgets like tablets, phones, and e-readers have become a regular part of most people's vacation packing list. But that doesn't necessarily mean you have to plug them in each night.

Solar power banks work by converting sunlight into usable power, storing it until it's required. This allows you to keep your battery full without relying on electricity. Though there's an initial cost of buying the solar power bank (typically $30 or less), you'll soon recoup this by essentially creating energy for free. (See also: The 5 Best Solar Power Banks)

7. Resist the air conditioner

This may sound like madness to AC lovers, but people have survived with minimal misery in hot weather conditions for thousands of years without using one. There are plenty of other ways to keep yourself cool when the temperatures rise that don't drain as much electricity.

A fan is an effective way to keep you cool in your hotel room at night. If presented with the choice, go for a fan room over an air-conditioned one, which will ordinarily cost less as well. If you feel it's an absolute necessity to use the air conditioner in your room, then at the very least, be sure to turn it off every time you leave the room.

8. Make your flight as green as possible

Air travel is bad for the environment, there are no two ways about it. But there are a number of ways to reduce your personal impact and make your flight a little greener.

Choosing the shortest route with the fewest connections will cut down on your time in the air, ultimately using less fuel. Many airlines now allow you to use digital boarding passes instead of printing them, so opt for it if you can to use less paper. Finally, some airlines have carbon offset programs that allow you to reduce your carbon footprint by donating to carbon reduction projects.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Industries That Could Benefit From Climate Change

Tim Lemke — Fri, 13 Oct 2017 08:30:04 +0000

The recent devastation brought on by hurricanes in the U.S. and Puerto Rico has led to renewed conversations about the impact of climate change. Dangerous storms, rising sea levels, droughts, and heat waves are now more commonplace around the globe, and for better or for worse, there are many companies poised to cash in.

Few companies will explicitly try to profit off climate change, but there are a number of industries that could see revenues rise if our planet continues to warm. Whether by harnessing new energy sources, building new infrastructure, or creating products to protect people's health, companies will step up and respond as our climate changes. Meanwhile, other firms will profit in unexpected ways.

Here are some major industries that may benefit — rightly or wrongly — from climate change.

1. Renewable energy companies

Most scientists agree that the pace of global warming can be slowed by a shift toward green energy. Companies that produce solar energy and electricity from wind and other nonpolluting sources should see revenues grow as the energy economy shifts. The number of startups operating in this area is expected to increase, too.

Here's why. Renewable energy sources comprised about 15 percent of U.S. electricity production in 2016, and that's likely to increase. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, solar energy accounted for 30 percent of all new sources of electricity in the first quarter of 2017. Renewable energy is expected to pass coal as an energy source within the next 12 years. We won't be switching entirely to green energy overnight, but the megawatts produced by environmentally friendly sources will continue to increase.

2. Established energy companies

While concern over climate change has led to a push for more renewable energy sources, traditional energy companies aren't going away tomorrow. In fact, as energy needs increase due to rising temperatures, it (ironically) may be established fossil fuel companies that meet those needs until renewable sources become more abundant and reliable. Some companies have also noted that melting ice in the Arctic could open up more areas for offshore oil drilling.

3. Construction companies

While many people are focused on preventing and slowing climate change, others are examining how to make our world more resilient to deal with the impacts. This means potentially building sea walls and other infrastructure to address rising sea levels. It could also mean bolstering major infrastructure such as railways, airports, and roads. Much of this work will be done by private companies, and could come sooner rather than later if lawmakers agree on a large increase in infrastructure spending.

Companies such as Caterpillar, Bechtel, and Whiting-Turner are among those often involved in major construction projects. It's worth pointing out that many of these same companies are active in disaster relief efforts, as well.

4. Air conditioning suppliers

An increasing number of places in the world, including some densely populated regions, are dealing with temperatures that are virtually deadly unless citizens have access to air conditioning. This presents a huge opportunity for air conditioning suppliers such as Daikin Global and Fujitsu, provided that their potential customers have access to the electricity to run AC units.

Of course, air conditioning is also a contributor to climate change due to the use of hydrofluorocarbons, which trap thousands of time more heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. As countries move to phase out the use of HFCs, companies that produce affordable and scalable air conditioning solutions that are better for the environment are the best poised to cash in.

5. Specialized clothing manufacturers

If an increasing number of people are facing extreme weather, that's an opportunity for clothing manufacturers who use technology to produce clothing that helps keep us safe and comfortable. Think of specialized apparel and gear that's designed to keep you cooler, block out the sun, protect against extreme rainfall, or respond to changes in temperature. Even sunglasses may become more technologically advanced.

Climate change also presents an opportunity for companies committed to reducing their carbon footprints when sourcing and manufacturing their products.

6. Shipping companies

In August, a Russian tanker ship made headlines by becoming the first ship to cross the Northeast Passage from Europe to Asia without the use of an icebreaker. This is significant, because it suggests that companies can now ship goods much faster. For example, a trip through the Northeast Passage, which runs along the Arctic coast of Russia between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, takes 30 percent less time than the traditional route through the Suez Canal.

The trip by the Russian tanker was made possible due to declining ice levels in the Arctic, presumably as a result of climate change. The reduction in ice could also mean more potential routes for vacation cruise ships, including more trips to the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

7. Defense and security firms

There is increasing concern that food shortages and other challenges caused by climate change could lead to civil unrest. In fact, the United Nations Food Programme last year said high food prices led to unrest in Morocco, Bangladesh, Tunisia, and Indonesia. Large defense companies, including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and United Technologies, would indirectly profit if tensions escalated into armed conflicts, and many of those same companies are involved in carrying out the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Moreover, climate change is often cited as a contributing factor to the refugee crisis in Syria and other parts of the Middle East. Continued mass migration could mean a greater need for border surveillance and security forces, which would also benefit security and defense firms.

8. Crop science companies

A number of forces are combining to drive prospects for crop science companies. The world's growing population is causing food demand to rise. Meanwhile, consumers are showing more interest in organic food products. This is all happening at a time when climate change is causing more droughts, floods, and unpredictable growing conditions.

Companies that may benefit from these trends include new biotech firms, as well as established giants such as Monsanto and Bayer, which have invested billions of dollars in crops designed to be more resilient and produce higher yields with less water and soil.

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This article is from Tim Lemke of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Solar-Powered Outdoor Security Lights

Andrea Cannon — Wed, 06 Sep 2017 08:00:10 +0000

Solar-powered outdoor security lights harness the power of the sun to provide lighting and security around the home and yard. This means lower energy costs and a better option for the environment.

What is a solar-powered outdoor security light?

Solar powered outdoor security lights convert solar power into electric energy to provide lighting without using electricity. They are charged by the sun, so you won’t need to worry about power cords getting in the way. They are ideal for use around steps, driveways, porches, patios, walkways, carports, and sheds.

Top 5 solar-powered outdoor security lights

Sunforce LED Solar Motion Light

The durable Sunforce LED Solar Motion Light automatically turns on when it detects motion. The amorphous solar panel generates electricity in all daylight conditions, even on cloudy days, so you can get reliable lighting anytime. The weatherproof light comes equipped with 60 super-bright white LED lights and three adjustable settings: light level, time, and sensitivity.

This has easy installation and is maintenance free. It includes a lithium-ion rechargeable battery and mounting hardware. It has outstanding online reviews, including more than 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. The Sunforce 80-LED Solar Motion Light is another highly reviewed option from the brand.

Currently $25.99 on Amazon

Mpow Solar Lights

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in commercial emergency light fixtures, the Mpow Solar Lights, turn on automatically in the dusk and turn off at dawn. They offer fast charging, seven hours of illumination, eight ultrabright LED lights, and long sensor length. They also feature three intelligent adjustable modes: strong long light mode, dim light sensor mode, and strong light sensor mode.

A polysilicon solar panel shortens the charging time, even in less sunny environments. This set has outstanding online reviews, including more than 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $21.99 on Amazon

URPOWER LED Outdoor Solar Motion Sensor Lights

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in patio ceiling light fixtures, the durable wireless URPOWER LED Outdoor Solar Motion Sensor Lights have large solar panels, a large capacity battery, 20 LEDs, and a diamond lampshade. The waterproof, rustproof, high temperature-resistant stainless steel construction can withstand years of rain, snow, ice, and wind. Thanks to intelligent detection, brighter light activates when sensing motion, and the light stays on for 20 seconds after motion stops.

It’s easy to install this four-pack with the included mounting hardware and lights can be positioned seven feet away from each other to cover a larger area. This includes a 1000mAh 3.7V Li-ion rechargeable battery for up to 10 hours of use on a full charge. It has outstanding online reviews, including more than 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $24.99 on Amazon

Litom Super Bright Solar Lights

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in island lights, the Litom Super Bright Solar Lights offers a broad range of bright light. The unique design has a wider 120-degree sensor angle and longer sensing distance. The durable weatherproof light has 54 super bright LEDs and a built-in PIR motion sensor. The larger solar panel has faster battery charging (even in cloudy environments) and more power energy storage.

This automatically turns on when it senses motion and has three adjustable lighting modes: medium light mode, dim light sensor mode, and sensor mode. Installation is easy with the included mounting hardware. The light is frequently recommended online for those who want a bright outdoor light.

Currently $26.99 on Amazon

MAXSA Innovations Motion-Activated Dual Head LED Security Spotlight

The durable MAXSA Innovations Motion-Activated Dual Head LED Security Spotlight is one of the brightest solar-powered, motion-activated outdoor security lights on the market, thanks to four super-bright LEDs. It can withstand any weather and turns on automatically when motion is detected. It is fully adjustable thanks to three dials for time, motion sensor range, and amount of darkness needed for activation. The amorphous solar panel can efficiently charge, even on cloudy days, ensuring you get light when you need it.

The solar security light has two heads that can be pointed in different directions for wide illumination. Installation is easy with the included mounting hardware. This also includes three 1.2V NIMH AA rechargeable batteries that last up to three years.

Currently $51.00 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best solar powered outdoor security lights. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

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This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

23 Effortless Ways to Go Green (and Save Money, Too)

Dr Penny Pincher — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 08:00:09 +0000

Believe it or not, going green and saving money often directly align, since consuming fewer resources results in less pollution and costs less, as well. Here are a few ways to help the earth by spending less — or even by spending nothing! (See also: 12 Green Living Habits That'll Save You Every Month)

1. Eat less meat

Eat less red meat and move down the food chain for cheaper food and less environmental impact. You could also incorporate a meat-free day of the week to scale back on meat consumption, while also helping the environment and spending less on groceries. (See also: 35 Slow Cooker Recipes for Busy (or Lazy) Vegetarians)

2. Fight food waste

The best way to spend less on food is to throw less food away. Shop carefully to avoid overbuying, and preserve excess food items to reduce food waste going to the landfill.

3. Drink tap water

Infrastructure is already in place to provide drinking water to your home, so why pay extra to have drinking water bottled and shipped hundreds of miles or more? (See also: 8 Things We Keep Buying That Are Killing the Planet)

4. Resist fast food

Cut down on fast food with its wrappers, bags, boxes, disposable cups, and plastic straws. You'll keep waste out of the landfill and save money, too.

5. Catch water with a rain barrel

Use a rain barrel to provide water for your plants with no chlorine or other added chemicals. This saves the energy of pumping water out of the ground, and you'll save on your water bill.

6. Create a no-mow zone

Consider creating a natural space in your yard that does not require mowing. This will save time and energy mowing, and provides a habitat for wildlife in your yard. (See also: Turn Your Backyard Into a Wildlife Refuge for Under $40)

7. Drive a gas-sipper, not a gas-guzzler

Get the most fuel-efficient car that meets your daily needs. If you occasionally need more capacity, you can borrow or even rent a vehicle and still come out ahead. You'll spend less on gas every day and add less pollution to the air.

8. Air up your car tires

Keeping your tires fully inflated is the easiest thing you can do to improve your fuel economy. Air up your tires for a couple quarters at the gas station to save money — and gas — every time you drive.

9. Walk whenever possible

Everyone knows you can save money and burn less gas by walking or riding a bike instead of driving. If this is not feasible, try to combine trips to reduce how much driving you need to do.

10. Use public transit or carpool

You may be able to have someone else drive you to work, freeing up some time to read and relax on the ride while saving gas, too. If you do not have convenient mass transit in your area, see if your employer has organized a carpool, or start your own.

11. Send email, not snail mail

Use email rather than snail mail for letters, paying bills, and sending greeting cards to reduce the carbon footprint from trucking mail around. Plus, you can also save money on postage.

12. Avoid gratuitous tech upgrades

It takes a lot of resources and energy to produce a technology device. Before you get rid of your current device and pay extra get the new model, consider whether the upgrade is really worthwhile.

13. Use rechargeable batteries

If you find yourself throwing away a lot of batteries, pick up some rechargeable batteries you'll save money and reduce waste from spent batteries going to the landfill.

14. Resist Ctrl+P

Work to reduce the amount of printouts and paper copies of documents you make. Save paper, ink, toner, space, and money but cutting back on printing.

15. Reduce A/C and heating

In summer, turn off the A/C and open the windows (and maybe turn on a fan). In the winter, turn down the heat and put on a sweater. You'll end up saving fossil fuel and money.

16. Replace furnace filters

Regularly replace your furnace filter with a clean one so your heating and cooling system runs at higher efficiency, saving money and energy.

17. Reduce wasted electricity

Turn off unused lights and unplug appliances when you're done using them to reduce your electric bill and your demand for electric energy production.

18. Dry clothes on a clothesline

Use free solar power in your yard to dry clothes on a clothesline. Save money, electricity, and wear-and-tear on your clothes dryer.

19. Use LED bulbs

An easy green upgrade is to replace your incandescent light bulbs with LED light bulbs. This will save you money on your electric bill and reduce your energy consumption to light your home.

20. Reduce disposable products

After realizing how many plastic spoons and forks I was throwing away at lunch, I took a set of silverware from home to work and use it every day. Try to identify disposable products you are using and replace them with reusable products instead.

21. Buy stuff that lasts longer

The initial cost of higher quality products may be higher, but the overall cost of ownership is lower over the life of the product. Longer-lasting products are greener than products that need to be replaced after a short life, as it requires less resources to meet a lower product demand.

22. Just say 'no' to excessive packaging

Choose products that minimize packaging, and therefore waste. For example, use refillable dispensers for items such as hand soap and laundry soap that you can replenish from an efficient bulk container. The bulk supply is often cheaper than buying a new dispenser each time, too.

23. Use reusable shopping bags

Paper or plastic? How about neither! Some stores offer a discount if you bring your own shopping bag. For example, a local store near me offers 10 cents per bag discount, or you can donate it to charity. Plus, I find that my reusable bags are sturdier and better protect my items than disposable plastic bags.

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6 Ways Climate Change Could Affect Your Money

Andrea Karim — Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:00:05 +0000

As our planet steadily warms and the climate changes, one thing is for certain — it is incredibly hard to predict what the long-term future holds.

There is a ton of data that shows Earth's climate is warming, but the change is occurring so rapidly that the existing data doesn't necessarily provide scientists with a way to make 100 percent accurate predictions. Plus, we can hardly get weather predictions right for the next week, so imagine trying to make accurate predictions for decades into the future.

All of that said, there are six predictions that we can generally make regarding the future of our planet and our money.

1. Water will cost more

Water is, hands down, our most precious resource on this planet. Scientists predict that potable water may become increasingly rare in the next 50 years — at least, based on our current climate models and methods for collecting and storing water. At least half the world's population relies on groundwater for personal consumption (with urban demand expected to grow by 55 percent by 2050, according to National Geographic), and groundwater is supplied by precipitation.

Global warming is expected to increase downpours, so one might expect that our groundwater supply should be in good shape. However, that's not the case. Groundwater builds up slowly over time, through melting snowpack and steady precipitation. If climate forecast models are accurate, then it's possible that the next 100 years will see northern hemisphere snowfall amounts decline dramatically (between 10 percent and 30 percent, according to National Geographic). Increased precipitation, when it comes in the form of monsoon-like deluges that are too voluminous to be absorbed, simply causes flooding.

In addition, warmer global temperatures will contribute to problems with water quality, according to both the Union of Concerned Scientists and Physicians for Social Responsibility. Rising seawater in low-lying coastal areas can contaminate freshwater reserves. In areas of drought, on the other hand, concentrations of freshwater contaminants are expected to increase, which can lead to potential health concerns for humans.

Precipitation deluges can also cost municipalities millions if excess stormwater floods damage sewage treatment plants (as happened in Seattle in February 2017). This can lead to a costly backup — or in the case of the Seattle treatment plant, millions of gallons of raw sewage pouring into Puget Sound. All of this makes it extremely likely that the cost of potable water will get much higher in the next 50 years or so.

2. Energy will cost more

North America has enjoyed a boom in cheap oil and natural gas in recent years, thanks to fracking, a means of extracting oil and gas from rock shale using pressurized water. But as climate change causes freshwater supplies to dwindle and water costs to rise, expect to see either a falloff in fracking-related production of fossil fuels or a drop in demand.

Other means of power generation may come under threat, too. Many of the country's rivers may actually see less water flow due to shifting precipitation patterns and accelerated evaporation rates. Less water flowing in our rivers will mean less water to power hydroelectric dams. Did you know that water is used to cool coal and nuclear power plants, too? Without access to that water, power brownouts are a possibility in many areas, especially during times of peak power usage.

Fortunately, advancements in green technologies like solar and wind energy production (coupled with new efforts to manufacture batteries for home storage of electricity) promise possible relief. These technologies, along with microgrids — local energy grids that can disconnect from main power grids and run autonomously — can also help alleviate problems that arise from the aging of the already hopelessly outdated U.S. utilities infrastructure.

3. Food may cost a lot more

A warming climate is a mixed blessing when it comes to food production. Warmer weather and higher levels of carbon dioxide can mean happier crops and larger yields, but that's assuming that new diseases and pests don't also thrive on the warming conditions. Because the cost of food depends on so much more than crop yields, it's very difficult to say how food prices may rise in the future.

According to National Geographic, some crops' yields will increase, while others may see a significant drop. Among the predictions scientists are making:

Corn yield may decline by as much as 20 percent in the Midwestern United States, and 16 percent in Brazil. And if the cost of corn and other basic cereals rises along with the cost of water, the cost of meat production will also rise.
Potato farmers in northern Europe may expect an increase in production, whereas farms farther south will become increasingly drought-prone.
West and East Africa may support more industrial agriculture, but China and India are expected to experience massive losses of arable land.

As the climate continues warming, Americans may see a serious shortage of fresh fruits and vegetables, causing price hikes. California produces the vast majority of the fresh produce eaten in the United States, including citrus fruit, artichokes, broccoli, nuts, plums, and tomatoes. The state's vast farmlands are expected to suffer from more frequent droughts and heat waves as the climate continues warming.

Seafood is also likely to become rarer and pricier as rising carbon dioxide levels cause oceans to acidify and harm or kill off species like salmon.

4. Flood prone real estate may lose value

Temperamental weather is one thing, but the warming atmosphere and oceans are also giving rise to more intense and numerous hurricanes and other ocean-centered storms.

The tempests, combined with rising sea levels, are expected to devalue coastal property significantly over the next 50 to 100 years. According to the National Ocean Service, in 2010, 39 percent of the U.S. population lived in counties directly on the shoreline, with another 8 percent expected to join them by 2020. Consumers who own properties right up against the coast face not only physical dangers from rising sea levels, but also increasing costs, particularly for homeowners and flood insurance. You can expect to see premiums and deductibles rise in areas affected by climate change-related flooding.

It has taken some time for the U.S. real estate world to react to the predictions about climate change, perhaps because North America hasn't experienced as much climate change-related damage as initially predicted (or perhaps because 60 percent of Americans don't believe that climate change will affect them personally, according to research from Yale University's Program on Climate Change Communication). However, changes are taking place. New York Times data shows home sales have dropped about 7.6 percent in high-risk flood areas of Miami-Dade County, even though home sales have increased 2.6 percent nationally.

5. Homeownership will cost more

Real estate agents like to say that there are three factors to consider when buying a home: location, location, location. Well, it's more true now than ever. While homeowners previously considered issues like neighborhood safety, the quality of the local school district, or local amenities, now homebuyers will also have to factor in issues like: Will my home be swept away in a freak flood? Are forest fires becoming a possibility in this area? The answers could point to significant dangers or at the very least, higher costs.

Buying a home in an area that is negatively affected by climate change will affect more than your mortgage options and your insurance: You may also pay a fee just to live dangerously. Homes built in unincorporated fire-prone areas, for instance, may be charged an annual fee to help pay for firefighting efforts. This has already been proposed in Washington State.

6. Health care costs will continue to grow

Anyone who has been to Beijing or Bangkok knows how terrible air pollution can affect your health. From asthma to emphysema, a more polluted atmosphere (which is currently a huge contributor to our warming climate) can mean a host of new health issues.

Warmer weather, combined with higher levels of carbon dioxide, can also cause plants to vigorously produce more pollen — meaning worsening symptoms for people with allergies.

And a wetter, warmer climate encourages the spread of insects like mosquitoes, which carry deadly diseases. Speaking of insects, the bark beetle that is killing off vast swathes of forest in the Western United States and Canada is creating so much dead wood that it's contributing to larger, deadlier forest fires in the dry summer months. Those, in turn, further hurt asthmatics and people with other pulmonary issues.

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How Long Does It Take to Break Even With Solar Panels?

Mikey Rox — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 08:30:10 +0000

Solar power has advanced leaps and bounds over the past couple decades, and those grid panels that harness the power of the sun and turn it into energy are everywhere. It's not uncommon to find at least one house in your neighborhood that has panels covering every square inch of its roof.

You may have also been approached by a solar company rep about outfitting your home with panels. (These guys and gals are almost as ubiquitous as the product they're selling.) And maybe you don't understand the mechanics of solar home power — or its benefit to your wallet — which may make you hesitant to explore the option.

Well, you're not alone. Those of us who haven't adopted solar energy yet still have a lot of questions — namely, what's this going to cost? And when will I break even?

The cost of solar panels

First, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of just how much solar panels will set you back. It's not cheap to save the planet, even though the sun has been free of charge for billions of years.

The easiest way to calculate the average cost of solar panels, according to New England-based solar marketing company EnergySage, is to look at its price in dollars per watt, and those numbers are fairly consistent across the country.

This year, "most homeowners are paying between $2.87 and $3.85 per watt to install solar, and the average gross cost of solar panels before tax credits is $16,800," says EnergySage's data. Figure in tax credits and the price comes down to $10,000 to $13,500, based on the average 5kW (5,000 watts) system that's typically installed in the United States. EnergySage also says these numbers are about 9 percent lower than last year, but recommends comparing prices quoted to other homeowners in your area.

Now that we know how much the system will set us back, the next reasonable question is how long will it take to break even. (See also: 10 Ways Anyone Can Go Solar and Save on Energy)

When you'll break even

Sarah Hancock is a digital marketing strategist who manages the solar coverage at BestCompany.com, an online review site that ranks companies in different industries. She says the amount of time it takes to break even depends on three main factors.

1. Current utility price

The higher the current electricity price is in your area, the more money you will save by going solar, which results in a faster break even time, Hancock says.

"For example, an individual who lives in California, where the price of electricity currently sits at about 17 cents per kilowatt-hour, will break even quicker than an individual who lives in Washington, where the electricity price is only 9 cents per kilowatt-hour, because the Californian will be saving more on his electricity bill each month," Hancock says.

2. Available incentives

These vary from state to state. There are a number of different incentives to take into consideration, including tax credits, rebates, performance payments, and tax exemptions. The more incentives available to you, the quicker your break-even time will be.

"One of those incentives is the 30 percent federal tax credit," says Andy Schell, marketing manager at Paradise Energy Solutions. "This credit allows solar owners to recoup 30 percent of the project's cost. If you aren't able to recoup all 30 percent in year one, the remaining amount can be carried forward for 20 years until the full credit is expended. In addition, USDA grants and accelerated depreciation schedules are available for qualifying businesses and farms."

This is a good resource to find solar-energy incentives available in your state.

3. Method of payment

According to Hancock, you can purchase the panels outright, or get them on loan, lease, or PPA (power purchase agreement — which is a financial agreement that allows a developer to arrange the design, permits, financing, and installation of a solar energy system, and lasts anywhere from 10 to 25 years).

However, there are fewer studies supporting the increased home value when you upgrade your home through a PPA or a lease. The reason is simple: With an upfront purchase or loan, the new buyer will not have to pay for any of the electricity produced by the panels because you would have already paid for it. With a PPA, the new buyer will still pay for electricity, simply at a lower rate than what other neighbors will pay to the utility company. Those agreements are easily transferable and can also be bought out by either seller or buyer if necessary.

The payment method that will result in the quickest break-even time varies from state to state depending on the two other factors mentioned above — utility price and available incentives. If you live in a state with high electricity prices and several incentives, you will probably break even quicker with a loan because your energy savings will be higher than your loan payment. However, if you live in a state with low electricity prices and few incentives, you'll most likely break even faster with an outright purchase.

"To provide a general range," Hancock says, "most individuals who go solar will break even in 15 to 25 years."

Leasing versus buying a solar system outright

"We guide homeowners with what we've seen is the question that is most likely to help them decide what route to take: How much is your tax liability?" says Julio Daniel Hernandez, a representative of renewable energy company EnLight.Energy.

If your tax liability is big enough right now to able to take full advantage of the Federal and possible state tax incentives, he says, then you should take advantage of the available loans and tax credits. If you don't have the tax liability, then a PPA/Lease makes more sense. You'll get access to all of the energy your solar system can provide at a cheaper rate than your utility company (usually around 20% savings) and will not ever have to pay a dime out of pocket.

As far as break-even calculations cost go, Hernandez's estimate is much more liberal than Hancock's.

"Break-even with a PPA/lease is zero because you don't pay anything; you just start saving right away similar to a third party electric company in a deregulated market," he says. "If you buy a system, depending on the incentives available to you, break-even point should be around eight years or less."

How incentives and pricing have evolved

As an early adopter of solar power a decade ago, you would have made out like a bandit with incentives, but that's not the case now that so many people are switching over to the energy solution. But as with all technology, the longer it's been around, the cheaper it becomes on the front end.

"Unfortunately, there are fewer incentives available now than there were 10 years ago due to the increased popularity of solar power," explains Hancock. "However, the good news is that the price of solar panels has dropped by more than 60 percent over the past 10 years. So, while fewer federal and state solar incentives are up for grabs, solar power is still more affordable than ever for consumers."

Is it a good investment?

In most states, solar power is a solid investment that will result in a significant return over the next 20 to 30 years.

"For example, an individual in California who purchases a solar system outright can probably expect to see a return between $30,000 and $40,000 over the next 25 years, while an individual in Washington could expect a return of about $10,000 for the same scenario," Hancock says.

Although the dollar-for-dollar return isn't as high for the Washingtonian as it is for the Californian, both individuals are still saving money with solar power.

Says Hernandez, "Your home value is estimated to go up $15,000-plus by upgrading to solar energy. Some of this depends on the size of the system, but studies are showing that the bulk of the increase comes from simply putting panels on and then there's only a slight additional shift upward based on how big the system is."

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Turn Your Backyard Into a Wildlife Refuge for Under $40

Dr Penny Pincher — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 08:30:13 +0000

One of my favorite things about where I live is that there is all kinds of wildlife I can see right outside my window. I don't need to go anywhere to experience nature. If you want to boost the wildlife population in your yard, here are some inexpensive ideas that provide a safe habitat for local creatures.

Bee house

Build a mason bee house to attract these pollinating bees to live and work in your yard. You can also buy a stylish pre-made mason bee house for about $20.

Bird house

Install a birdhouse to give birds a place to live in your yard even if you don’t have a lot of natural nesting sites. You can design and build your own birdhouse from a variety of scavenged materials including coffee cans and cowboy boots or order a wooden birdhouse kit for around $12.

Bird feeder

Birds will come from all around if you put out a bird feeder and keep it stocked with fresh birdseed. You can choose a simple tube-style feeder for as cheap as $5–$10, or get a rectangular feeder for a few dollars more. Sprinkle a bit of feed on the ground to help birds find it.

Hummingbird feeder

You can attract hummingbirds to your yard by putting out a nectar feeder, which will cost around $10. Hummingbirds are attracted to red, so choose a feeder that is red or one that has a clear glass that can be filled with red nectar. Change the nectar every few days to keep it fresh. You can buy this nectar in bulk (about 64 oz) for about $10. I mix my own nectar in small batches using a powdered formula. You can also keep unused portions of nectar fresh in your refrigerator until you need to add it to your feeder.

Oriole feeder

Orioles are distinctive orange and black birds that like to eat sweet things. Attract them with a nectar or jelly feeder for about $10 featuring the color orange.

Birdbath

Put out a birdbath, and birds will come to your yard to take a bath and get a drink. A birdbath can run anywhere from $10–$40, depending on the size you get. Keep mosquitoes from using your birdbath as a habitat by changing the water at least once a week, or use a bacterial insecticide that is not harmful to birds, fish, or other wildlife.

Suet feeder

Woodpeckers and other insect-eating birds will visit a suet feeder (for only $10!) to get some quick energy. You can use a small metal cage or a netted bag to hold suet so that birds can access it. Place a suet cake or suet ball in your feeder and watch the fun.

Bat house

I enjoy watching bats fly around at dusk eating mosquitoes and other insects. Attract bats to your yard by putting up bat houses. You can build your own bat house from plans or buy a preassembled bat house for about $30.

Squirrel feeder

Some people consider squirrels to be pests that raid their bird feeders, while others think squirrels are entertaining and enjoy having them around. If squirrels amuse you, put out a squirrel feeder (for about $25) to serve up ears of corn and bring squirrels in close for easy viewing.

Butterfly plants

There are a number of plants that can attract butterflies to your yard. A butterfly bush includes low-cost seeds (a pack of 500 seeds runs around $5) and has abundant fragrant blooms that draw butterflies in from all around to feed on nectar. Milkweed attracts Monarch butterflies, since they are a favorite plant for Monarch caterpillars to eat.

Native prairie plants

Native prairie plants require less water than other landscape plants and attract birds and insects. These plants are a great natural feature that you can enjoy right in your own yard. You can grow prairie plants from seeds, or you can buy small prairie plants for $5–$10 that are ready to transplant to your yard. There are several varieties of prairie plants to choose from including ferns, grasses, and flowers. (See also: 13 Simple Gardening Skills Anybody Can Master)

Unmowed area for shelter

You can leave an area of your yard unmown to provide shelter for wildlife. For a small area, you can use a hoe to take out any undesired weeds, resulting in an area of tall grasses that provides shelter and a natural source of nesting materials for the ecosystem in your yard, and that won't cost a thing.

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5 Stocks to Buy If You Love the Earth

Erin C. O'Neil — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 08:00:08 +0000

Socially responsible investing (SRI) isn't a new concept, but it's an increasingly popular one in a world focused more on sustainability. The "green" subsection of SRI is environmentally-conscious investing, geared towards investment in companies that promote environmental stewardship. Think clean energy, sustainable resources, infrastructure, waste management, even consulting services.

Rolling in green doesn't have to mean a choice between fields or bills. You now can do both, all at once if you prefer. We picked five funds that successfully blend environmentally-conscious investments with performance.

(A note on tracking the performance of your "green" investments: Different sectors often use specialized indices to benchmark performance within their niche. Keep that in mind when choosing how to allocate your portfolio.)

1. Pax World Global Environmental Markets Fund [MUTF: PGRNX]

Beloved by the environmental community and investors alike, the Pax World Global Environmental Markets Fund focuses on long-term growth in sustainable investing. The fund evaluates financials along with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) analysis on its holdings, carefully balancing a stringent set of criteria to evaluate investments. And it's paid off. The fund has outperformed global market benchmarks, has an average five-year return of 10.77 percent, and Morningstar gives it a three-star rating. Plus, it's fossil-fuel free.

2. Guggenheim Solar ETF [NYSEARCA: TAN]

Guggenheim Investments' Guggenheim Solar ETF (with a very easy to remember ticker symbol) is an exchange-traded fund perfect for the investor who loves solar energy. The fund invests in solar energy-related segments across the industry, from supplies and lighting to raw materials and installers.

3. Pattern Energy Group Inc Class A [NASDAQ: PEGI]

Pattern Energy Group focuses on independent energy producers, with a specialization in wind and solar renewable energy. Pattern's newest wind farm is an impressive 150 acres, and it's not just the size that's impressive. The wind farm will generate 100 percent of the electricity for Amazon Web Services. PEGI outperformed its peers over a three year period. A lackluster 2014 for the independent energy sector overall hurt performance stats against the S&P 500, but the gains since then are impressive, and PEGI's potential for future earnings looks bright.

4. Etho Climate Leadership U.S. ETF [NYSEARCA: ETHO]

Here's an ETF that focuses on industry leaders with small carbon footprints. ETHO is "the first diversified index ETF that avoids fossil fuel companies and the first public investment product to select equities based primarily on an assessment of an equity's carbon footprint." Etho Capital, the fund manager, also provides the Etho Climate Leadership Index [ECLI], a performance benchmark for companies with the smallest carbon footprints in their industries.

5. Ameresco [NYSE: AMRC]

Ameresco focuses on asset sustainability and renewable energy resources, providing performance contracting and consulting. Helping government entities reduce energy bills helps in part to pay for the work, and they're growing rapidly. Ameresco surged past earnings predictions for 2016, and the company plans to build on that in 2017. A growing demand for services should help them on their path.

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Where to Take Your Batteries, CFL Bulbs, and Other Hard-to-Recycle Stuff

Carrie Kirby — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 08:30:22 +0000

Not only is it harmful to the earth to throw recyclable items into landfills, but it's now illegal to dump certain items in many places. When an item isn't accepted by your city's regular recycling pickup, it can be tempting to just chuck it in the trash. Here's how to properly dispose of those tricky items.

1. Non-rechargeable batteries

The AAs from your kids' toys, those weird little coin-shaped ones, the 9-volt batteries from your smoke detector, even dead cellphone batteries — none of those should be going to the landfill. Check with your local trash service, because some of them will pick up batteries and dispose of them properly if they're left in a specified place or container. Increasingly, public facilities such as libraries and city halls have battery collection boxes, as well. If you don't know of a location, look up the nearest one on Call2Recycle. The nonprofit says that most of us live within 10 miles of a battery drop-off point.

2. Rechargeable batteries

These batteries can't be re-juiced forever, and when they're done, it can be challenging to find someone to take them. But it's even more important to keep these guys out of the landfill than regular batteries, because they contain dangerous heavy metals. You can drop them off at some retailers. Again, check Call2Recycle for locations near you.

3. Cellphones

If you're getting rid of your phone, leave the battery in it and drop it off at a recycling kiosk, public drop-off box, or nonprofit organization. Fortunately, many used smartphones are still worth money, so there are a lot of organizations that will take them.

4. CFL bulbs

These twisty light bulbs are another dangerous one to chuck in the landfill, because of the mercury they contain. Check out earth911 for locations near you that will take them. Sometimes you can even just drop them at stores like The Home Depot, Lowe's, or Ace Hardware.

5. Eye glasses

Jinkies, don't ever throw away an outdated pair of specs! The Lions Club can deliver your castoff glasses to a low-income person in need — and yes, they sort them for prescription first so they can match the eyewear to the need. Many optometrist offices have Lions Club collection boxes, but if you can't find one, you can contact your local club or mail them in.

6. Electronics

Goodwill accepts donations of working electronics at their stores, or they can pick them up. They will even wipe your personal data off your hard drive for free. Specifically, Goodwill accepts desktop and laptop computers, tablets, business network switches and routers, and servers, all five years old or less. Any older electronics will have to go to an e-waste collector.

7. CRT monitors

Picture tubes contain lead, so this is another product that it's extra-important to keep out of landfills. One thing Goodwill will not accept is a bulky, old-style monitor. Drop them off at Staples for free. Or drop off up to two computer monitors of any kind, per day, at Best Buy, but you will have to pay them $25 to take them off your hands. You can also contact the company that made the monitor to find out if they have a take-back or trade-in program.

8. TVs

Smaller TVs can be dropped off at electronics stores. If you have a large TV to get rid of, you'll have to contact an e-waste company such as All Green, and they can either come pick it up for a fee, or allow you to drop it off. You could also try contacting your local government, since many have e-waste drop-off centers or schedule e-waste collection days that include TVs.

9. Printer ink and toner cartridges

Good news here: You can actually get money or store credit for ink cartridges from office supply stores or online buyback programs. Call your local office supply store.

10. Tires

Once considered useless, 90 percent of old tires now live on as playground surfaces, building materials, and even fuels. Turns out, a single tire contains five gallons of oil! Contact a local tire store to find out if they will take them, or check with your state to see if there is an official tire disposal plan. Otherwise check earth911 for additional locations. (See also: 12 Cool Ways to Make Treasure Out of Trash)

11. Appliances

Because they contain metal that can be sold as scrap, unwanted appliances are usually easy to get rid of — you might even get paid for them. My electric utility paid me $35 for the privilege of picking up my old freezer.

Retailers will often take away an old appliance for free when delivering a new one. But when my dryer broke, Sears Outlet wanted to charge me to remove it. I asked around and get the number for a local independent scrap dealer, who was at my house with a dolly to haul it away within an hour.

12. Paint and chemicals

Contact your town, city, or county to find out the procedure for disposing of Household Hazardous Waste. Los Angeles county, for instance, hosts regular HHW collection events. The county reuses discarded paint for covering graffiti, and converts used motor oil into marine diesel fuel.

13. Medication

According to the Food and Drug Administration, you should contact your waste collection service or your local government to find out if there is a medication take-back program in your area. If you can't get them to such a program, the FDA suggests you mix old pills with an undesirable substance such as kitty litter, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it in the trash.

If all else fails

If you don't have time to call around to find out about the next e-waste collection day or drug take-back program, find a battery drop-box, or contact a scrap dealer, there are two other convenient ways to get rid of practically anything:

Pay someone else

1-800-GOT-JUNK? and similar companies will pick up an appliance, an old hot tub, tires, construction waste, TVs — anything not considered hazardous. They promise to dispose of it responsibly. Of course, this kind of ease comes at a price, about $500 a truckload, on average.

List the item on Freecycle

You never know what trash of yours could be another person's treasure. I've had success getting members of my community to take away empty glass bottles, old magazines, unwanted furniture, and broken electronics, all by listing them on my local Freecycle group.

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10 Most Valuable Things to Plant in Your Garden This Spring

Dr Penny Pincher — Wed, 22 Mar 2017 10:00:13 +0000

With the days getting longer and warmer, I find myself looking out the window thinking about what to plant in my garden. I usually decide what to plant by choosing things that I like to eat, or things that grow well in my location. This year I decided to look at garden planting strategy from an economic angle. Considering the value of the produce, the likely amount of production, the garden space required, and the general desirability of the produce, here are the 10 most valuable things to plant in your garden this year.

1. Garlic

Since garlic is one of the most expensive produce items to buy in-store, growing it yourself is a much better plan. Whether you're buying the full cloves, the striped cloves that are pre-washed, or the pre-minced garlic, you're paying way more for this plantable item than necessary. To save even more money on your garlic harvest, you can grow it as a perennial, and not have to replant it every year.

2. Cilantro

Cilantro can be a relatively inexpensive item to buy, but how often do you use up everything you buy? It is also a plant that produces the highest dollar value per square foot based on typical production in good growing conditions. Cilantro is an annual, but it seeds itself so well that you might think it is a perennial.

3. Lettuce/Mixed Greens/Spinach

Whatever green, leafy base your favorite salad requires, you would be wise to grow it yourself this spring. Spinach, mixed greens, and lettuce are all quite pricey in the produce aisle. You're usually paying for convenience with these items, so they're often found bagged or boxed, pre-washed, and free of stems. But if you plant them yourself, along with arugula and Swiss chard, you'll get the most value per square foot. Plus, you'll know exactly what you're getting and just how clean it is.

4. Chive

Like garlic, chives are a perennial plant, so you only have to plant once and can count on it growing back every year. It's also another produce item found on the list of crops that produce the highest dollar value per square foot based on typical production in good growing conditions.

5. Cherry Tomato

There's something particularly satisfying about biting into a juicy tomato you grew in your very own garden. And since cherry tomatoes are small, you tend to go through them quickly. You'll no longer be paying top dollar for each box when you can pick what you need from your garden.

6. Peas

Instead of shucking store-bought peas, why not experience the pride of shucking peas that emerged from the ground outside your house? Freeze the surplus from your harvest and you'll have peas to use year-round.

7. Bell Pepper

Have you ever watched a bell pepper grow in a garden? It's kind of amazing. They start small, then they gain some length and width, and then the finale is when the robust color shines through the pale green. Depending on how long you let them ripen, you'll get red, orange, yellow, or green. But when you buy these in-store, you're paying a premium. So why not save some cash and grow them at home?

8. Jalapeño Pepper

A spicey member of the pepper family, jalapeño peppers are also cheaper to grow than they are to buy. Just make sure you give them direct access to sunlight as these guys love to sunbathe.

9. Artichoke

Artichokes are another perennial gem. They are cheaper to grow, but they do need moist soil in order to thrive. Also, make sure you keep them free of surrounding weeds that could get in their way.

10. Onion

Onions might not be a produce item that you feel like you're spending a lot on at the store. But just because you're used to a certain, fairly low price doesn't mean you need to pay it. Grow your own onions and you'll be saving money over time. Plus, if you plant scallions, they could be ready for eating in 20-30 days!

Growing your own most valuable plants

You can grow these plants even if you don't have space for a garden. Start these plants in containers on a patio or balcony.

Another factor to consider in selecting the most valuable things to grow is how much space is required per plant. Plants that take up less room work better in small gardens, and smaller plants allow more variety in whatever size garden you have to work with.

Check for hardiness, too

The hardiness of plants and the climate that they need to grow must also be considered when deciding what to plant in your garden. It would not work out well to try to harvest a high value crop from a plant that will not grow in your climate. You can check your hardiness zone using a map available from the USDA and then check seed packets or listings in seed catalogs to make sure that the things you want to plant will grow in your area before you buy them. If you have more room available, you will be able to grow some of the larger plants such as squash, pumpkins, and large tomatoes.

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This article is from Dr Penny Pincher of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

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