This is a guest post from Jessica Wagner.
An easy way to save money and lessen your impact on the environment is to reconsider your ride to work. When you step back and think about it, do you really need to buy all of the latest automobile technology or even go to work every day? Commuting to work every day is an antiquated tradition which will soon join Hootie and the Blowfish in terms of relevance. Here are some ways to reinvent your mundane morning drive:
Consider Cloud Computing
With Apple’s introduction of the iCloud computing system, the way we store information and documents will change forever. Cloud computing allows users on a network to easily access information from any connected device. You can easily convince your boss and coworkers to start telecommuting more often when cloud technology starts to explode in the private sector.
Buy a Used Car
Automotive companies have been touting the gas saving technology found in their newer models ever since the earliest gas crisis in the 70′s. Worried about things like relying on foreign oil, the rising price of crude, oil speculators, and global warming; consumers want to do their part to save the planet. Marketers and advertisers have been taking advantage of these sentiments and started selling us vehicles such as hybrids, electric cars, and smart cars.
While it is true that these vehicles require less fuel and produce fewer carbon emissions, they also take a lot of energy to create. While purchasing a brand new car will make auto refinancing easier, the purchase of a used or certified pre-owned car with good gas mileage will reduce your carbon footprint and fuel costs as well.
Carpool, Use Public Transportation, or Walk
A couple of years ago, I had a job as a server in a fancy Italian restaurant in the trendy part of town. I spent lots of late nights in that place and even later nights out partying my tips away. Whenever I had to work a lunch shift, I found myself driving to work because of my unfortunate condition. Looking back, that was a very irresponsible thing to do because I only lived half a mile away. If I would have walked to work, I could have eliminated any gas costs and would have been in better shape. By walking, carpooling, or using public transport, you can cut your car costs and lower the monthly payments you make on automotive repairs and maintenance.
Suggest Longer Work Days
A growing trend across America is the switch from a five day work week to a four day work week. By working ten hours a day instead of the usual eight, you will save money over time from not having to make the Friday commute. The environmental and financial perks of this system are great, but there are also benefits like a more productive workweek, longer weekend, and lower office utility bills.
Suggest these time, money, and effort saving strategies to those you work with, or try them yourself and see how fast it catches on.
