As research around climate change increases, the need for more sustainable practices has never been more apparent. Unfortunately, a large number of modern conveniences have a negative impact on the planet. Switching over to a more sustainable, eco-conscious lifestyle can seem daunting, but it’s possible to make environmentally-friendly choices without a complete overhaul of your entire routine. 

Let’s take a look at several ways you can make small yet significant shifts in your day-to-day habits with sustainability and Mother Nature in mind. 

1. Go Paperless

Though it’s one of the most recycled resources on the planet, paper recycling is still labor intensive and tossed bills or mailed notices often end up in landfills anyways. In between online shopping and looking up Le-Vel Thrive reviews, take a moment to log on to your utilities accounts and opt for paperless billing. Instead of making paper lists or taking notes in a notebook, consider storing notes on your phone. 

2. Skip the Plastic Bags

Most grocery stores have the option for paper bags, but it’s best to commit to bringing reusable ones for each grocery run. Still, many items are packed in plastic bags, and plastic produce bags are still heavily in use. Consider ditching produce plastic entirely, and try to choose products that are packed in more sustainable packaging, such as glass, cardboard or metal. 

3. Buy Used

Consumerism drives up the demand for newer, better products, but for some purchases, you can often find what you’re looking for by searching in used marketplaces. Online resale sites or thrift shops sometimes even have brand new or gently used items, so you don’t have to sacrifice longevity in the process. 

4. Eat Less Meat

Animal agriculture is responsible for deforestation and a significant percentage of greenhouse gas emissions. Meat is a common centerpiece in dishes across many cultures, but with today’s food technology, you can eat a satisfying meal without increasing the demand for meat products. Try to incorporate a meatless monday in your household, choose a vegetarian or vegan restaurant the next time you eat out and look for ways to cut down on meat consumption by opting for meat replacements or other protein alternatives. 

5. Donate Your Items

Landfills are quickly reaching critical mass in large part to items that are inadequately disposed of or recyclable goods being thrown into the trash. Rather than toss your old computer, list it on a resale site or consider donating it. Even if items are not in usable condition, there are still facilities that can make use of its components and give them a new life. 

6. Turn Off the Faucet

If you’re guilty of starting the shower and letting it run for minutes before getting in, or you leave the water running while doing dishes or brushing your teeth, this simple switch can have a huge impact. Water utilizes a lot of electricity to travel to you, and water purification plants also consume a great deal of energy to clean water for reuse. Simply turn the faucet off when you’re not using water and find ways to use less water in gardening, household chores and preparing food. 

7. Power Down

Carbon emissions from power plants are a growing concern, so the less power you’re consuming, the fewer greenhouse gases will enter the atmosphere. Consider investing in power-saving plugs and switches, and be sure to turn off electronics when they’re not in use. 

8. Waste Less

Many materials are not biodegradable, or will outlast even your grandchildren before breaking down. Because of this, it’s crucial to be more mindful of what you’re throwing away and how much. Reusable alternatives can help you to cut down on the amount of waste generated by your household. Choose fabric napkins over paper towels, a reusable water bottle over single use plastic ones, bar soap over liquid packaged in plastic and your own dishes over disposable options. 

Notice the things that can be reused, too. Glass salsa jars can be thrown in the dishwasher and used as food storage, while old clothes can become washcloths or cleaning rags. Sustainability takes a small amount of creativity, but every small decision adds up.