Thanks in large part to the current economic woes, Americans have started looking for ways to make our lives more efficient. At the same time, people are beginning to recognize the real impacts of waste, from light-switches to landfills, on the fragile health of our planet.

Luckily, living more efficiently is as eco-friendly as it is cost-effective. It’s also quite simple: all you have to do is pay attention to the way you use the resources around you every day.

From the way we drive to the way we eat, our daily habits determine how much stuff we use – whether we’re talking food, fuel or plastic – and one small change in your daily routine can add up quickly.

For example, by simply relaxing the way you drive – accelerating and braking calmly, staying in the speed limit, and keeping your car running smoothly – you can improve your gas mileage as much as …read more of 8 Everyday Ways to Cut Costs and Live Efficiently here