Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.

The bumper sticker logic of environmentalists has long been touted as a way to save the earth, leave something for the next generation, love your Mother.

It seems like a tall order, but with the economy shrinking and the price of everything getting out of control, this way of thinking can actually help us all save money, too.

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Here are 3 ways to cut down on waste and save money in the process. And we just might end up helping our environment, to boot.

1. Plant a Garden

Raising a garden in Arizona presents its own set of challenges, especially if you've lived in other parts of the country where the environment itself isn't working against you.

Planting a raised garden and installing a low-drip watering system can help you save money this summer. Canva

From garden pests to animals like rabbits and javelina who like to dine on our hard work, plus the need to water and protect those precious plants from the sun, how are we supposed to make this work?

It's easier than you think, and the Cochise County Master Gardeners are here to help. Their knowledge on raised gardens, irrigation, low water usage crops, and protecting your plants from the heat of the sun can help you get a successful garden up and running in no time.

Gardening in Arizona can be a challenging, but there are experts ready to help. Canva

It'll save you money on produce, and with our long growing season in Arizona, you'll be harvesting your bounty late into the fall. Get some ideas and talk to experts. See the website to schedule a tour of the Discovery Gardens on the UA Sierra Vista Campus.

2. Get a Low Flush Toilet. And a REBATE!

Saving water in the desert is a top priority, and it's much easier than you think. The City of Sierra Vista offers a ToiletSense Rebate.

According to the website, the City of Sierra Vista "is offering rebates when you install an EPA WaterSense-approved toilet as part of its ongoing water conservation efforts. By replacing your existing toilets with a model that uses 1.28 gallons or less per flush, you can receive a rebate of $50-$100."

There is a limit of two rebates per household, and rebates are provided on a first come, first serve basis. These rebates are only available to Sierra Vista City Sewer residents and are predicated on availability of funds.

The city offers rebates for low-flush toilets. The toilets and the rebate could be money in your pocket. Canva

The limit is two per household. All rebates will be provided on a first come, first served basis for Sierra Vista residential City Sewer customers only, subject to availability of funds.

For more information and to apply for your rebate, see the WaterSense Toilet Rebate website.

3. Ride the Bus

If you live in Sierra Vista, consider riding the bus. The City of Sierra Vista is testing a six-month pilot program. Riding Vista Transit will be FREE through the end of August.

Riding the bus in and around Sierra Vista can be very relaxing and money saving as well. Canva

Vista Transit is largely funded through federal grant programs. The city hopes that dropping the fare will attract more interest in riding public transportation in our community.

The Vista Transit's Fare Free pilot program, riding the bus in Sierra Vista can save you a lot of money. Canva

Think of all the money you'll save on gas, as well as wear and tear on your vehicle. Plus, you'll be able to relax, read, or text your friends as you make your way around town.

For route information and more, please see the City of Sierra Vista website.

Source: 3 Simple Ways Save Money & Go Green in Cochise County