The good news is that many products that save energy will also save you MONEY through lower power bills. Even if you don't have a fuzzy green heart, read this section for the sake of your hip pocket.

There are some purchases that you make each week that can make a difference to our use of the planet's energy resources. Then there are the big-ticket items like white goods and insulation. The opportunity to make a difference with a wise purchase may not come around for another decade or two. However, when the time does come, make sure you think about the environment, the ongoing operating costs and the whole life span of the product, not just the 'up front' price tag.

• Buy energy saving light bulbs - Normal light bulbs may be cheap to buy, but they don't last long and they waste a lot of electricity. Energy saving light bulbs cost more up front, but they last ten times longer and use a lot less electricity.

Over its lifetime, one energy saving bulb can save you up to $60 (Australian). Many brands are now available in a "warm" colour, so you can have a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to cold fluorescent light. See the light and make the switch.

• Buy recycled and buy for recycling - For many materials it takes less energy to make a product from recycled materials than it does from virgin materials. Buy recycled content toilet tissue and paper products, such as Safe and Earthwise products.

Also make sure that you buy products with packaging that can be recycled in your area, instead of those with packaging you'll have to throw in the general rubbish bin. This will help to ensure that a supply of recycled materials are available for manufacturing. See the Buy Green – Buy Recycled section of this guide for more information.

• Buy concentrated cleaning products formulated for cold water use - Concentrated products use less ‘bulking' materials and need less packaging. Because less of the product is needed to do the same job, there is also less product to be transported. So these products save resources and energy in their production and distribution. Examples include Planet Ark and Aware laundry powders.

• Buy a water-efficient showerhead - You can recognise these by an AAA rated sticker or an Energy Smart label. They can save hundred of dollars a year in power and water bills.

For specific product advice visit the Save Water internet site.

• Buy energy-efficient household appliances - Need a new washing machine, fridge or drier? Choosing the highest energy-efficiency star rating whitegoods can save you many $100's of dollars on electricity and tonnes of greenhouse gases. Go to www.energyrating.gov.au for a complete listing of star ratings.