We all want a better future. We all want to be good stewards of the earth. But with rising prices, it’s tough to put our dollars towards investing in sustainable solutions. When you are worried about affording gas and groceries, is it even possible to invest in sustainable solutions?
Yes! You can invest in sustainable solutions for $10 or less! You may be taking smaller steps but those small steps add up into major changes.
How Can I Get Started?
Many sustainable investment options have low minimum investment requirements, making it possible to start investing with a small amount of money. Some investment platforms allow you to invest in sustainable ETFs and mutual funds for as little as $1.
There are also other ways to invest in sustainable solutions that don’t require a lot of money. For example, you can support sustainable businesses by buying products from them. Or invest in crowdfunding campaigns that support sustainable initiatives.
It’s important to remember that even small investments can make a difference when it comes to sustainability. By investing in sustainable solutions, you are supporting companies and initiatives that are working to create a more environmentally and socially responsible world.
10 ideas for investing in sustainable solutions for $10 or less:
Invest in a community garden
Many cities have community gardens that allow people to rent plots of land to grow their own produce. Investing a few dollars a week in a community garden can help support local food systems and promote sustainable agriculture. Plus you reap the benefit of having fresh produce!
Of course, you can certainly start your own garden in your backyard or on your balcony, too. Either way, you’ll be reducing your produce food miles dramatically. You’ll also add more plants for pollinators to enjoy.
Support a renewable energy co-op
Many communities have renewable energy co-ops that allow individuals to invest in clean energy projects like solar panels or wind turbines. Investing $10 a week in a renewable energy co-op can help support the transition to clean energy.
Start by contacting your local electric and gas companies to see if there are programs available in your area.
Purchase carbon offsets
Carbon offsets allow individuals to offset the emissions they produce by investing in projects. These projects reduce or remove greenhouse gas emissions, such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives.
Invest in a sustainable agriculture project
Sustainable agriculture projects focus on farming practices that are environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable. Investing in a sustainable agriculture project can help support local food systems and promote sustainable farming practices.
Contact your local extension agency and/or agricultural department. They’ll generally have the inside scoop on local projects and investment opportunities.
Support a sustainable fashion company
Sometimes investing in sustainable solutions is as easy as making a swap in your purchasing habits. In the market for a new dress or t-shirt? Rather than purchasing from your local big market retailers, invest in a sustainable fashion company.
Sustainable fashion companies focus on creating clothing and accessories that are made from eco-friendly materials and produced in an ethical and sustainable way. Purchasing from a sustainable fashion company can help promote ethical and sustainable fashion practices.
Invest in a sustainable housing project
Sustainable housing projects focus on building or renovating homes using eco-friendly materials and practices. Investing $10 a week in a sustainable housing project can help promote sustainable building practices and support affordable housing initiatives.
Your local housing department may need volunteer help, too. Or you can often find local donation sites to donate paint, flooring, furniture or other items for reuse.
Invest in a green transportation project
Green transportation projects focus on reducing emissions from transportation by promoting sustainable modes of transportation like walking, biking, and public transit. Investing a few dollars in a green transportation project can help promote sustainable transportation initiatives.
Call your department of transportation to ask if they have ideas for investment opportunities available in your community. You can also invest in stocks or ETF’s that are working on these initiatives.
Support a sustainable tourism project
Sustainable tourism projects focus on promoting tourism that is environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable. Investing as little as $10 a week in a sustainable tourism project can help support local economies and promote sustainable travel practices.
Start with your local tourism office to see what projects they are aware of for ideas on where to invest. You can also invest your time instead of dollars. Many of these projects rely on volunteer help.
Invest in a sustainable technology project
Sustainable technology projects focus on developing technologies that are environmentally friendly and promote sustainable practices. Investing in a sustainable technology project can help support research and development of new technologies that can help reduce our environmental impact.
Support a sustainable food company
Sustainable food companies focus on creating food products that are made from eco-friendly ingredients and produced in a sustainable and ethical way. Dedicate your food dollars to as many sustainable food companies as possible. This can help promote sustainable food systems and support local economies.
Also, regularly shop your farmers markets and buy local good such as honey and eggs as often as possible. This dramatically reduces your food miles, supports your community and the environment.
