Off the Urban Grid

Eco-friendly Retirement Options

There are many issues to consider when planning your retirement. It’s supposed to be a relaxing time in your life when you don’t have to worry about money or working. While you do need a break from the 9 to 5 schedule, you might find that a few weeks of doing nothing is more boring than refreshing. Consider a green retirement so you can find a place that meets your needs and doesn’t cause you to increase your consumption.

Some people have a completely new destination in mind when they plan for their retirement. Florida, California and other beach destinations are common. However, if you relocate to a place that is far from your original home, you will have to drive or fly to see family and friends. While you might be happy in your beach house, you will increase your energy consumption.

For years you have been driving yourself to and from working and running errands. Retirement is the perfect time to surrender the steering wheel to someone else so you can be carted around. Look at cities that have public transportation or think about moving to a city where you can walk to stores and restaurants.

Now is also the time to eat healthier foods and shop in a more frugal and informed manner. Since you have the time, take the time to buy locally grown crops and organic food. Not only will it help to preserve your health, it will also help support local farms.

After you lie on the couch for a week, have lunch with friends and do whatever else you please, you might find yourself bored and wondering what to do with yourself. Keep in mind that even though you are retired, it doesn’t mean you can’t still try to make a difference in the world. Contact animal shelters or environmental organizations to see if you can volunteer your time. Getting out of the house will do you good. Plus, volunteering is less demanding than the full-time job you used to have.

Living an environmentally friendly lifestyle is possible into your retirement years, and it actually becomes easier since you have more time and energy to put into caring for the planet.

Tags: eco-friendly retirement, green retirement, sustainable retirement