How to Save Money and the Planet! with Lottie Dalziel
Jul 01, 2025
By Molly Benjamin, Founder of Ladies Finance Club
Listen to the full podcast here.
In this episode of Get Rich, host Molly Benjamin is joined by sustainability expert Lottie Dalziel, founder of Banish and author of 365 Ways to Save the Planet and Your Money. They dive into the simple, practical steps you can take to embrace sustainable living while also saving serious cash. From reducing food waste to switching up your cleaning products, it’s all about doing good, for your wallet and the world.
How Food Waste Impacts Your Wallet and the Environment
Aussies waste an estimated $2,000 to $3,000 worth of food every year per household. That’s like buying five bags of groceries and throwing one straight in the bin. Food waste not only affects your finances but also produces methane gas in landfill—bad news for the planet.
Money-saving tip: Plan your meals before heading to the supermarket. Only buy what your recipes call for. No more bulk-buying carrots if you only need two! And use what’s already in your fridge before it goes off.
Simple Recycling and Plastic Use Hacks for Sustainable Living
Recycling can be confusing, but here’s a quick rule: do the scrunch test. If a plastic scrunches into a ball and stays that way, it’s not recyclable in your curbside bin.
Eco-friendly tip: Use reusable produce bags and buy loose fruit and veg instead of those wrapped in plastic. It’s a simple way to reduce single-use plastic without overhauling your lifestyle.
Sustainable Fashion on a Budget: Save Money and Reduce Waste
Most of us only wear a third of our wardrobe. That’s a lot of money wasted on unworn clothes!
Conscious fashion tips:
- Shop your own wardrobe before heading to the mall
- Borrow or swap clothes with friends
- Try dress rental for special occasions
- Focus on cost-per-wear rather than sale prices
Avoid fast fashion brands selling $8 tops, these often come at a cost to workers, the environment, and garment quality.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips Using Household Staples
Cleaning products don’t have to be toxic or expensive. Lottie’s minimalist cleaning kit includes just four ingredients:
- White vinegar
- Bicarb soda
- Lemons
- Castile soap
These basics clean everything from your countertops to coffee mugs without the harsh chemicals (or the high price tag).
High-Impact Sustainable Living Swaps You Can Start Today
Looking to kickstart your green living journey? Start with these easy wins:
- Eat the food you already have at home
- Turn off appliances at the wall to avoid phantom power use
- Shop seasonally and avoid overbuying at the grocery store
- Take your own containers and bags when shopping
Conscious Consumerism: Small Habits That Make a Big Difference
Before you buy something new, ask:
- Who made this?
- What is it made from?
- Where will it end up?
- How many times will I actually wear/use it?
These questions help reframe impulse spending into intentional spending, supporting both your budget and the environment.
You don’t have to be perfect to live more sustainably. Start small, stay curious, and focus on the swaps that work for your lifestyle. Whether it’s cutting down on plastic, reducing food waste, or embracing slow fashion, your choices can have a powerful ripple effect.
Want more tips? Grab Lottie’s book 365 Ways to Save the Planet and Your Money from Booktopia, Amazon, Dymocks, or your local indie store. Or follow her on social media @banish.au.
