These five tips will save you a lot of money in the long run -- and will help save the environment to boot!

• Use a power strip

Did you know that your electronic appliance uses up valuable energy when it’s plugged in…even when it's turned off? However, by plugging a number of your devices in a power strip, you can make sure that precious power is truly shut down with a flick of the switch!

• Think reusable instead of disposable

Sure, you might not have to wash those paper plates and plastic utensils once you're finished with them. But all those disposable products are bad for the environment -- and hard on your wallet!

• Cook your own food

Rolling up your sleeves and preparing your own meals takes time, but it's usually cheaper than eating out. Plus: no food containers that will end up in land fills!

• Walk

It's a no-brainer that by walking—instead of driving—you are being kind to your wallet, the Earth, and your health. You could also carpool, bike, or take mass transportation!

• Be Thrifty

Just the act of using your money wisely whilst making your purchases will greatly reduce both your carbon footprint and your debt. Impulse buys end up, more often than not, in the discard pile.