More people are realizing that everyone needs to take action to reduce the effects of climate change. For many, the idea of lowering their carbon footprint can seem overwhelming. It doesn't have to be. Here are seven things you can do right now to make a difference for the environment.  

1. Eat More Fruits and Veggies

While there is some ongoing debate about this, it is generally accepted that animal products require more energy input to produce, process and deliver to consumers. For that reason, many environmental groups argue for a plant-based diet. You might choose to embrace vegetarianism, but it might be easier to opt for a few meatless days each week by enjoying green superfood powder smoothies. 

2. Compost Food Scraps

You get bonus points if you can incorporate the next tip in your pursuit of a vegetable-focused diet. In addition to having a lower environmental impact during production, fruits and vegetables are also much easier to compost than animal products. 

Composting is relatively easy to set up, although you can get into more advanced methods, too. Many people find that keeping scraps in the freezer until it's time to take them outside keeps them from attracting bugs, while others find that a small bin on the counter serves as a good reminder to toss scraps in. 

3. Switch to LED Bulbs

It may come as a surprise that something as small as a light bulb can reduce your carbon footprint, but it can. If you haven't upgraded the light bulbs in your home, now is as good a time as any to get started. Invest in high-quality LED bulbs that will be much cheaper to operate and last longer than inexpensive ones.  

4. Monitor Your Energy Use

You can do a simple energy assessment yourself or hire a professional, but, either way, it will give you an idea of where you are using — and wasting — energy at home. Armed with this information, you can make calculated adjustments and repairs that will have the biggest impact on lowering your carbon footprint.

5. Combine Weekly Errands Into a Single Trip

There are several ways you can cut back on how many trips you take each week without feeling like you are missing out. A good first approach is to combine trips whenever possible. That could mean going to the store on your way home from work and then swinging by to pick your kids up from practice. This may require some adjustment to your current schedule, but it is often more accessible than you might think. It can also help to talk with co-workers and other parents to gauge interest in carpooling. 

6. Rethink Upcoming Travel Plans

Planes use a tremendous amount of fuel to get from point A to point B. However, this does not mean you should avoid all air travel. Many people believe that being environmentally conscious means you can't board a plane, but you can make your next trip more ecologically sound without compromising — too much — on comfort. 

Start by traveling economy class. Sure, the seats are closer together, but that means that more people can fit in the same amount of space. Just like carpooling is more energy-efficient, so is cramming an extra 20 people into smaller economy class seats. Try to choose non-stop flights whenever possible cuts back on the amount of fuel used for taking off. 

7. Adjust Household Temperature Settings

Moving your thermostat a few degrees can make a big difference in how much energy your house requires. Adjust daytime temperatures to around 68 degrees in the winter and 78 in the summer, moving the needle down a few degrees at night. It is also helpful to lower the water heater to 120 degrees. Not only will you use less energy, but you are less likely to get burned, too.

Small changes can add up to a big difference. From embracing a plant-based diet to adjusting your thermostat and rethinking transportation choices, you can lower your carbon footprint with little, everyday actions.