Five simple steps to going green on a budget

Many people want to do their part for the environment and make eco-friendly changes to their lifestyles but don't know where to start. Sure, it would be nice to emulate high-profile celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio or Cameron Diaz who zip around in hybrids and purchase topnotch green products. But what do you do if you don't have a Hollywood budget?

According to Mary Caraccioli, financial expert and multi-Emmy Award-winning host and executive producer of "Money Matters Today" on CN8, The Comcast Network, anyone can make green choices while minding their bottom line. Caraccioli offers five easy ways to make a difference:

1. Rethink your trash: Make a conscious effort to reduce your garbage and increase your recyclables. "Everything should not be destined for the trash can," says Caraccioli. "Help reduce the mountains of material headed for the landfill by donating toys, clothes, old computers, cell phones and extra food to charities." The remaining

"trash" can then be sorted

and recycled where applicable. "I recently discovered that Hewlett Packard recycles old printer ink cartridges," she offers. "When you purchase new cartridges, the company includes mailing labels to send back the empty cartridges at no cost to the consumer."

2. Plan your meals: Reduce costly impulse purchases by creating a list of your week's meals before heading to the supermarket. This limits impulse buys and saves money. By purchasing the right amount of food, you won't have to throw out extras that spoil. "By targeting my shopping, I found I could splurge on organic, locally grown fruits and veggies and still spend less," Caraccioli says.

3. Aim low: "All of your meals do not have to feature meat or fish," Caraccioli suggests. "Foods lower on the food chain such as fruits, veggies and grains, require fewer resources and can help you stay trim and healthy." Try to replace one or two meals a week with cost-conscious alternatives full of fruits and vegetables and see the positive impact on your grocery bill and waistline.

4. Trim the paper trail: Reduce the environmental impact of your paper usage by purchasing recycled office paper. "I have tried Domtar EarthChoice paper," says Caraccioli. "You can get it at most big office supply stores or online. I also print on both sides of the paper, it really cuts consumption and keeps costs down." Of course recycling used paper is also important. Take the lead on recycling, not just at home - but at the office too.

5. Don't waste money on "green" posers: The word "green" has become a great marketing slogan for all types of businesses. Some are legitimate, others are cashing in on the ecofriendly trend but do not offer any real benefit to reducing carbon emissions. "By understanding what CO2 is and what it means to go 'carbon neutral' you will be better able to spot great ideas for going green," Caraccioli offers. "Get the scoop on how CO2 is lowered by visiting www.carboncounter. org."

Mary Caraccioli offers even more financial tips every night on "Money Matters Today" at 6:00 p.m./EST exclusively on CN8, The Comcast Network. To learn more about "Money Matters Today" or to watch the show online, please visit www.CN8.tv. CN8 is the nation's preeminent regional 24- hour cable network, producing live, original and interactive programming covering the worlds of sports, politics, personal finance, issues, entertainment and more. "Money Matters Today" is also available ON DEMAND at no charge to Comcast Digital Cable customers.

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