How 'Going Green' Can Save You MoneyIt's not just for do-gooders--sustainability saves money, too.

image credit:Shutterstock

When it comes to sustainability, I'm on a mission to shift the conversation from the nebulous concept of "going green" to the more definitive one of "choosing quality." The primary outcome is the same--less trash in landfills--but my methods will also save you money. Here are my four key guidelines.

Buy the best you can afford.I used to believe I was being frugal by purchasing a new $3 pair of gardening gloves each March. When they fell apart in the fall, I would simply throw them away. Then one year I splurged and bought a $15 pair of gloves. I haven't bought another since.