Sure, we all know that we should be choosing reusable totes instead of plastic bags and using eco-friendly cleaners, but did you know that you can actually get paid to go green? Here are some of the more original ideas out there that will pay you to help the environment.
Skip the mow
Did you know that some states will actually pay you if you skip the lawnmower and create your lawn as a habitat for wildlife? Generally you need to own at least ten acres of land that you are willing to convert yo grasslands for birds or forest for native species. Check with your state’s Department of Environmental Conservation to see if such a program exists for you.
Skip the lawn
And while we are on the subject of lawns, some regions, are offering monetary incentives if you tear up your water-thirsty lawn and replace it with stones or drought resistant plants to reduce your annual water consumption. In one city near Orlando, Fl, homeowners can net as much as $1,000.
Sell your recycling
While you can still collect cans in some places and return them for the deposit, Recyclebank is a program that will pay you buy the pound for your recycling. Your recycling is weighed at the curb when it is picked up, and then points are awarded that can be redeemed for gift cards and coupons at local retailers. You may or may not have to pay a small fee ($3 a month here) for renting out the recycling bin or for pick up.
Sell your old electronics
Isn’t it horrible how practically five minutes after you buy that new cell phone it becomes worthless? Well even old electronics are worth something when you recycle them. Various companies out there will buy your old electronics and then either resell or recycle them. Here are three of those companies to try. Do you think they might be interested in an old Commodore 64? Check out: www.buymytronics.com, www.myboneyard.com and www.greenphone.com.