Guest post by Emma Sturgis

Making your home more green is the ultimate “win-win.” Not only do you help the environment stave off looming catastrophe, but you also knock off a significant portion of your monthly utility bills. With so much to gain and so little to lose, it’s never too soon to make some green investments around the home. Any expenditure you make will be more than offset by future savings, and all the while you’ll know you’re doing the right thing. There are countless ways to decrease the environmental impact of your home, but here are four investments you’d be well advised to start with.

Go Solar

Solar panel installation has never been cheaper, and the benefits to your energy bill will become apparent immediately. Some solar panel owners create so much power that they can even sell their surplus energy to the utility company at a profit. Solar panels are also one of the best ways to cut down on your carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. The future of energy is likely to count on renewables, so why not be among the first homeowners to join the future? Also, if you choose to sell your home in the future, having solar panels will be a big perk to potential buyers.

Replace Old Appliances

Old washers, dryers, and dishwashers use excessive amounts of water and electricity. By switching to certified energy-efficient alternatives, you can cut back on your home’s energy use. This might seem like a large expense at first, but the investment will pay off in the long run as you save money on your monthly bills. There are also plenty of simple steps you can take in your daily use of these appliances that benefit your budget and the atmosphere. Try, for example, not to use warm water in the washer. This simple step makes the laundry process far less wasteful.

Replace Your Light Bulbs

Incandescent light bulbs were the standard for generations, but they are now entirely obsolete. Not only are CFL bulbs more energy efficient, but they also last much longer and shine much brighter. This is one of the easiest, least expensive things you can do to be green in your home. There’s really no reason, practical or ethical, not to make this simple switch.

Get a Low-Flow Showerhead

If you pay attention next time you shower, you’ll likely notice that there’s an unnecessary amount of water coming from the tap. A low-flow showerhead will cut back on unnecessary waste while getting you just as clean. Also be mindful of any leaks in your shower or other faucets. Even a slow leak over time can add up as a major water waste.

According to countless experts, the natural environment is being threatened like never before. Luckily, we are all capable of playing our part in the efforts to create a sustainable society. What's more, the simple measures we can take have the added benefit of saving us money. Be smart, and invest in a green future.