The Bonus of Being Green
Cash in on widespread environmental incentives.
Perhaps you roll your eyes at your mom every time she makes you drag the recyclables to the grocery store for a “mere” 5-cent return on your deposit. (Really, mom? It’s only 5 cents!)
But, if you stop to think about it, mom really does know best: That change quickly adds up to savings.
Bottle recycling centers have been around for a while, but these days there are plenty of new ways to be kind to the planet and your wallet. The following are some teen-friendly retailers keen on recycling.
If you’re a fan of visiting Whole Foods Market for some snacking, bring don’t forget to bring your reusable grocery bag along for the trip. According to the Whole Foods Market Web site, the company “[S]trongly encourage[s] using reusable grocery bags by providing affordable bags and by paying at least a nickel-per-bag refund.” Think about it; all you have to do is bring your own bag and you get some money back. That bag of pita chips you crave will practically pay for itself!
Now that you’ve done all the grocery shopping, it’s time for your cluttered drawer of cosmetics to get a makeover. “By returning six M·A·C primary packaging containers to a M·A·C counter or M·A·C Cosmetics online, you’ll receive a free M·A·C lipstick of your choice as our thanks to you.” M·A·C’s program is a great steal. Save space in your home and the planet and get rewarded with free makeup? Yes, please!
For the coffee-savvy environmentalist, check out your local Starbucks. Certain Starbucks locations will take a 10-cent discount off of your coffee if you give them a reusable cup or mug. We all know Starbucks isn’t exactly cheap, so every penny kept in your pocket counts.
Students are always using printers, whether for essays, notes or a picture of the latest (sparkling vampire) heartthrob. Before chucking that empty ink cartridge in the trash, visit your local drugstore or electronics store. Many companies will refill your old cartridge, or give you a used but refreshed ink cartridge for a lower price than a brand-new cartridge.
If you get the newest cell phone every few months, stop letting your old one roll take up space on your desk. Many companies will take used cell phones and give them to women’s shelters or even soldiers overseas. You may not get any money back for it, but you’re still getting a great feeling in return by helping someone in need.