Green Education Savings Plans Send Your Child to University by Going Green
Many parents worry about how they'll pay for their child's education. And while some parents have enough cash flow to pay for university or college outright, many families will struggle for decades to borrow or save enough money. But now, the environment may provide families around the globe with a third option.
Easier and More Profitable to Go Green
People often avoid going green because they see it as expensive and inconvenient. And at one time, they were right. Only the rich could afford technology like solar panels and geothermal heating. And poor infrastructure made lifestyle changes like riding a bike to work dangerous, inconvenient and almost impossible. Even the value of recycling was highly debated. In short, being green wasn't easy or cool.
Today, increasing pressure in society to protect the environment, live a healthier lifestyle and save money has led to a plethora of changes that make green living easier and attainable. Solar panels, for example, cost far less than they did two years ago and almost any material can be reused or recycled. Unfortunately, the cost of education has only increased.
A university degree now costs tens of thousands annually. This means most families will have to make sacrifices for decades if they hope to pay for their child's university education. And if they're unsuccessful, their child will have to fight to get out of debt or skip university all together. It's a terrible situation to be in, but the environment could change that.
Show Your Children the Value of Helping the Environment
We reduce our carbon footprint because we want to do the right thing and help make the world a better place. But now, an emerging trend in green living has made it possible to build a better future by helping the planet and educating your children. It doesn't even require significant changes in your life.
Consider the money you can save by taking the bus, riding your bike or walking to work rather than driving. Expenses such as basic maintenance, insurance and fuel can easily add up to thousands every year and these savings could easily pay for your child's university education. However, the trick is save these extra funds rather than redirecting them to other areas of the family budget. Even the smallest savings can add up.
Other green lifestyle changes can earn money for education, too. For example, switching to high efficiency light bulbs or purchasing local produce can save you thousands annually. The government, insurance companies and other large groups may even offer rebates, discounts or grants for choosing environmentally-friendly options. Almost everything you do for the environment can help you fund your child's education. And you can always find ways to earn more.
If you install solar panels and sell the excess energy to the local power company, you can easily generate enough to pay for the solar power system, save for your child's education and buy other things your family needs. The rate of return will depend on the system you install and where you live. However, as governments seek alternative power sources and push environmentally-friendly solutions, the amount of income available for solar and other energy sources will only increase.
Saving money is just the first step in funding your child's education. Look for ways to protect your growing nest egg with financial tools such as high interest or tax-free savings accounts, trust funds or environment-driven investment portfolios. After all, when it comes to your children and the environment, even the little things can make a big difference.
