As the world evolves, humankind’s effects on the planet are more apparent than ever. It’s no secret that the population’s current practices are not sustainable, and life as we know it may cease to exist in the near future.

By changing a few habits, you can do your part to protect the environment, making the world a better, greener place for generations to come.

Ditch Plastic

Plastic production increased with the demand for convenience products, but modern scientists have since measured the detrimental effects of widespread plastic use on our lands and seas. Plastic degrades, but it never truly goes away entirely.

Fortunately, green solutions are nearly as convenient as single use plastics. By simply switching out plastic grocery bags for a reusable canvas tote bag or investing in a reusable water bottle, the demand for plastics will decrease and there will be fewer plastic particles invading and disturbing the earth.

Buy Clean Products

Though many chemicals are effective detergents, they’re not exactly safe for the planet. Choosing natural, organic cleaners is a valuable way to reduce the impact of harsh chemicals on the planet’s delicate systems, without sacrificing powerful cleansing ability.

Cleaning products aren’t the only offenders. Personal care items, though used in smaller amounts, also contribute to the deterioration of the environment through both their use and production. Environmentally friendly products are also often in more sustainable packaging, packing a two-for-one punch.

Go Meatless

Industrialized agriculture has done more to eat away at the planet’s resources than nearly any other industry, and animal agriculture is its worst offender. Raising meat requires a lot of water, land, oil and other resources, many of which can’t be replaced.

You don’t have to go completely vegan to make a measurable impact. Simply opting for plant-based foods more often will reduce the demand for animal products. Even one day per week makes a large difference.

Buy Second Hand

One major contributor to environmental strife is the worldwide obsession with new toys, electronics and other items. Yet, the crockpot or hair dryer we’ve had for years still works as well as it did when first unboxed, and we don’t always need the latest and greatest model.

When products are made well, they last for years. If something needs to be replaced, check your local listings to see if someone is selling what you need in nearly new condition. Not only does this decrease the amount of things that go into a landfill, but it can save you some serious cash, too.

Go Digital

If you can’t remember the last time you received a hand-written letter, or you’re so used to tossing junk mail into the recycling bin that it’s practically a daily ritual, then you’ve already seen the value of digital communication.

Paper waste can be reduced by contacting your utility companies and requesting paperless billing or notifications. An email is also a lot easier to open, sort or delete than anything you’d receive in your mailbox.

Reduce Your Consumption

Landfills are expanding around the world, and they’ll only keep growing as long as humankind continues to fill them with unwanted food and goods. You probably don’t need as many pairs of pants as you think you do, and it’s likely you already have food in the fridge and don’t need to eat out.

When making your monthly grocery budget, meal plan or clothing budget, commit to only purchasing what you need and using it within a reasonable time frame, so it doesn’t end up in the trash or in a landfill somewhere.

Environmentally friendly choices don’t have to be difficult or complex. By finding ways to alter what you’re already doing to be more earth-conscious, small changes can make a big difference.