In honor of Earth Day on April 22nd, we're providing you with tips to be more “green” and save money in the process.

Drive less, save more

One contributing factor to your insurance premium is the number of miles you drive. Driving fewer miles could shrink your carbon footprint and lower your auto insurance premium.

Change your driving style

Go easy on the gas and brakes instead of making quick stops and starts. And slow down! Each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Choose a “greener” car

Trading up a used car for a new one usually increases your auto premium. But many insurance companies now offer a discount for hybrid car ownership. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to see if you qualify for an additional discount on your new environment friendly car.

Park and Ride

If you travel significant distances from home to work, consider using a “park and ride.” This is where you park your car at a local lot and leave it there for the day. You can either carpool or take public transportation. Here is a map and list of “park and ride” locations in Dane County.

Save energy

• Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer. Here are some more tips for saving on heat costs.
• Unplug appliances when you’re not using them.
• Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. Almost 85% of the energy used in a washer goes to heating the water.
• Air dry clothes instead of using the dryer.

Eat smart

• Buy locally raised foods. This keeps money in the local economy.
• Eat low on the food chain.
• Skip the bottled water.

Buy smart

• Think before buying. Consider services like Craigslist or Ebay for your items.
• Borrow instead of buying.
• Buy in bulk.
• Wear clothes that don’t need to be dry-cleaned.
• Donate or recycle electronics (cell phones, computers, etc.) responsibly when the time comes.

Information from NAIC and Worldwatch Institute.

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