Prosper Lending polled US consumers in the run-up to Earth Day regarding environmental attitudes. The poll found that 91 percent cared about conserving natural resources, but 75 percent factor cost into the fact that they are slow to implement solutions in terms of home improvement.

One thing that may help is the green mortgage. This product is still being offered by some lenders for home improvements, and also for first-time homebuyers that want an energy efficient home. And don’t forget that there are state and federal tax breaks for going green with your home improvement projects.